Iran Rail Revamp: Mapna, Railways Boost Freight, Passenger Capacity

“`html

Introduction

Iran Railways and Mapna have signed contracts for the manufacture of 40 MAP-30 heavy freight locomotives and the refurbishment of 37 Iran Safir passenger locomotives. The agreements, valued at approximately USD 163 million, also include a memorandum to support the domestic fabrication of 50 passenger railcars.

Locomotive Manufacturing and Procurement

The primary contract involves the delivery of 40 MAP-30 heavy freight locomotives by Mapna, valued at 9,500 billion Iranian tomans (USD 123.5 million). This initiative represents the largest domestic locomotive order in Iran’s history. Production will be carried out at Mapna’s Locomotive Engineering and Manufacturing facility in Karaj, Alborz Province, Iran.

Passenger Locomotive Refurbishment

The second contract focuses on the overhaul of 37 Iran Safir passenger locomotives. This project is valued at 2,500 billion tomans (USD 32.5 million). The refurbishment of these diesel‑electric locomotives will be undertaken at Mapna Railway Maintenance and Operation Development Company (MRM) in Tehran.

Railcar Manufacturing Support

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was also signed between Mapna, Iran Railways, and Yazd Rail. This MoU aims to support the in-country manufacturing of 50 passenger wagons, reducing import reliance. Production is planned at Mapna’s Wagon Pars facility, also located in Tehran. Yazd Rail operates in Yazd Province, central Iran.

Contract Execution and Objectives

The contracts are scheduled to be executed over a period ranging from 14 to 29 months. The agreements aim to bolster domestic capabilities in locomotive and wagon production, decrease import dependence, and increase the share of rail transport in both passenger and freight sectors. The projects are expected to generate USD 163 million, along with a 10% increase in freight transport capacity, a 30% increase in passenger transport capacity and a 5% rise in passenger transport.

Conclusion

The recent agreements between Iran Railways, Mapna, and other entities encompass the manufacture of freight locomotives, refurbishment of passenger locomotives, and support for domestic railcar production. These projects, slated for completion within 14 to 29 months, are anticipated to enhance rail transport capacity and reduce reliance on imports.

Company Summary

Iran Railways: The national railway operator in Iran.

Mapna: An Iranian company involved in various engineering and construction projects, including railway equipment manufacturing and maintenance.

Yazd Rail: A regional railway company operating in Yazd Province, central Iran.

“`