Pakistan adds 20 GE locomotives
Written by William C. Vantuono, Editor-in-Chief
GE Transportation will provide Pakistan Railways with 20 FDL C20EMP locomotives, a follow-on order to 55 Evolution Series units ordered in 2015, of which 32 are in service.
These lighter-weight, 2,000-hp locomotives will be operated in freight and passenger service, and will primarily be used in Pakistan’s mountainous northern territory between Karachi and Lahore, with Peshawar and Quetta added later on. Freight service will consist mostly of oil and coal, supporting the business community in Faisalabad and Multan.
“We continue to make great strides towards reaching the transportation goal as part of the country’s Vision 2025 plan,” said Khawaja Saad Rafique, Federal Minister, Pakistan Railways. “Modernizing rail transportation and improving regional connectivity are critical components of the government’s plan, and we’re confident that our relationship with GE will help achieve these goals.”
“GE’s long-standing relationship with Pakistan Railways is a testament to our reliability and innovation within the rail space,” said Sarim Sheikh, President & CEO, GE Pakistan. “We look forward to delivering strong locomotives that help the country reach its goals in improving rail infrastructure across the country, improving the quality of services to citizens and supporting the nation’s economy. Pakistan Railways’ agreement to purchase FDL locomotives further supports the Government of Pakistan’s desire to increase the share of rail in transportation from 4% to 20% within the next 10 years.”
