RITES Signs Contract with Bangladesh Railway for Supply of 200 Passenger Coaches

New Delhi, India (Urban Transport News): In a significant development that underscores the strengthening ties between India and Bangladesh in the field of railway infrastructure, RITES Limited, a premier engineering consultancy firm, has signed a landmark agreement to supply 200 Broad Gauge (BG) passenger carriages to Bangladesh Railways. This contract, valued at $111.26 million (approximately Rs 915 crore), is funded by the European Investment Bank (EIB) and was secured through a global competitive bidding process.

RITES Limited, the export arm of Indian Railways, has not only committed to supplying these 200 passenger coaches but also to providing comprehensive design expertise, spare parts support, and training as part of the contract. The delivery and commissioning period is set for 36 months, followed by a 24-month warranty period. This agreement marks another milestone in the long-standing collaboration between RITES and Bangladesh Railways.

The contract was signed in Dhaka in the presence of the Hon’ble Minister of Railways, Bangladesh, Md. Zillul Hakim, and high-ranking officials from both RITES and Bangladesh Railway. This ceremony was a testament to the growing cooperation and mutual efforts to enhance railway infrastructure in Bangladesh.

The agreement is in line with the Indian government's vision of "Make in India, for the World," showcasing the export of indigenously developed, world-class railway rolling stock. RITES, a Navratna Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE), has been pivotal in promoting the growth of Indian engineering and manufacturing on a global stage.

RITES has been a crucial partner in Bangladesh's journey towards infrastructure development for many years. The company has previously supplied 120 BG Passenger Coaches (LHB type), 36 BG locomotives, and 10 Meter Gauge locomotives to Bangladesh Railways. Beyond rolling stock, RITES has also collaborated on various other infrastructure projects, reinforcing its role as a reliable partner in Bangladesh’s development endeavors.

With over five decades of experience, RITES Limited has established itself as a leading player in the transport consultancy and engineering sector in India. The company's expertise spans multiple domains and geographical regions, having undertaken projects in over 55 countries across Asia, Africa, Latin America, South America, and the Middle East.

RITES offers a diversified range of services, including project management, design, engineering, and consultancy, making it a comprehensive solution provider in the transport sector. Its global footprint and extensive portfolio underscore its capability to deliver high-quality services and products, tailored to meet the specific needs of its clients worldwide.

The supply of 200 BG passenger coaches is expected to significantly bolster the capacity and efficiency of Bangladesh Railways. This initiative aligns with Bangladesh’s broader goals of modernizing its railway infrastructure, improving passenger services, and enhancing the overall operational efficiency of its railway network.

The new passenger coaches will incorporate advanced design features and safety standards, ensuring a comfortable and secure travel experience for passengers. The inclusion of RITES’ design expertise and training services will further aid Bangladesh Railways in maintaining and operating the new rolling stock effectively.

The agreement between RITES Limited and Bangladesh Railways is more than just a commercial deal; it is a strategic partnership aimed at fostering development and strengthening bilateral ties. This collaboration highlights RITES' role as a key player in the global railway sector and its commitment to supporting the growth of railway infrastructure in neighboring countries.

As RITES continues to expand its global footprint, this contract serves as a significant milestone, reinforcing its reputation as a leading exporter of high-quality railway equipment and services. The successful execution of this contract will not only enhance Bangladesh’s railway capabilities but also exemplify the benefits of cross-border collaboration in achieving infrastructure development goals.