Russian Railways (RZD) is going to purchase 500 new locomotives next year. The company is in dire need of additional traction capabilities, as a persistent locomotive shortage is reducing its capacity to carry freight.
RZD will be buying the locomotives domestically, in order to “continue the work of forming a cluster of import independent machinery manufacturers.” The rail operator’s rolling stock fleet has taken a hit following the implementation of Western sanctions. As a result, RZD has a difficult time acquiring the spare parts necessary for maintenance.
The new locomotives are supposed to help boost RZD’s freight carrying capacity. The ongoing locomotive shortage is responsible for at least 93 per cent of Russia’s rail loading decline. More locomotives will help to carry more freight, but the company also has to resolve a labour shortage.
Despite the damaging locomotive shortage, the 500 new locomotives are no step up from 2024. RZD purchased 410 new locomotives as of 21 October 2024, and plans to buy 566 throughout the entire year.
European Silk Road Summit 2024
Eurasian rail freight will be one of the key Silk Road topics we will discuss at the European Silk Road Summit 2024, taking place in Vienna on 27-28 November.
Registrations for the yearly event are already open, while the programme, which this year highlights the fast-recovering China-Europe rail market, is shaping up.