West Central Railway has developed a battery-operated dual-mode locomotive named Navdoot. This engine runs on both modes i.e. battery and electricity. Currently, it is being used during shunting of trains at Jabalpur, Mudwara, and other stations on a trial basis. AIR correspondent reports that this e-engine can pull 18 coaches at a speed of 30 kmph. It has 84 batteries and has a capacity to pull 400 tonnes at present. Chief Public Relations Officer of West Central Railway Rahul Jaipuria told AIR that this innovation has been performed by the Electric Department of New Katni Junction.
This Dual Mode Locomotive has also received the Best Innovation Award from the Railway Board. Railways will save 1000 litres of diesel every day with this new locomotive. After clearing all the trials, it will be used more widely.
