China to provide 20 locomotives to Bangladesh railway

China is set to provide Bangladesh Railway (BR) with 20 meter-gauge diesel-electric locomotives worth $129.54 million (approximately Tk 1,591 crore) as a grant to help modernize its aging fleet.

The Ministry of Railways has submitted a proposal titled “Procurement of 20 Meter-Gauge Diesel Electric Locomotives for Bangladesh Railway under China Grant” to the Economic Relations Division and the Planning Commission. Approval processes are underway to fast-track the project, which is expected to begin in January 2026 and be completed by December 2027.

The total project cost is estimated at Tk 1,635 crore (around $133.12 million), with China funding Tk 1,591 crore and the remaining Tk 44 crore coming from the government treasury.

Along with the locomotives, the project includes the supply of spare parts and equipment, as well as training for Bangladeshi engineers and mechanics to ensure technology transfer.

Currently, Bangladesh Railway operates a fleet of 306 locomotives, including 174 meter-gauge and 132 broad-gauge units. However, over 70% of the meter-gauge locomotives have exceeded their 20-year economic lifespan, with many in service for over 40 years. This has led to frequent breakdowns, higher maintenance costs, and increased fuel consumption.

A senior railway official expressed concern, stating, “The costs of maintaining these old engines have become disproportionately high. Delays and cancellations are now a regular issue due to their unreliability. Without prompt replacement, services on several meter-gauge routes could be suspended.”

The 2020 Working Time Table indicated a need for 203 meter-gauge locomotives in Dhaka, Chattogram, and Lalmonirhat divisions. However, only 182 are currently operational, creating a shortfall amid rising passenger and freight demand.

While intercity trains receive priority, freight and local services suffer the most. Delays in locomotive overhauls further exacerbate breakdown risks.

The government’s 8th Five-Year Plan targets increasing railway’s passenger and freight transport shares to 10% and 15%, respectively. Despite recommendations to procure over 100 new locomotives between 2017 and 2021, only 30 have been acquired so far, largely due to financial constraints.

Railway officials are hopeful that the new Chinese locomotives will reduce maintenance and fuel costs, improve safety and reliability, and enable new services for passengers and freight.

An official noted, “China’s grant will provide some relief, but the overall demand for new locomotives remains high.”

Experts warn that substantial investment is still needed in both meter-gauge and broad-gauge fleets to prevent disruption of services and maintain the railway’s reputation as a reliable transport provider.