India’s railway transformation continues to gain momentum as BHEL has commenced the supply of semi-high-speed underslung traction converters for the prestigious Vande Bharat Sleeper Train project. This development marks an important technological and strategic milestone for the company, reinforcing its role in India’s “Make in India” and self-reliance initiatives.
On January 8, a flag-off ceremony was held at BHEL’s Bengaluru plant, where the first set of indigenously developed traction converters was dispatched. The ceremony was led by Ms. Bani Varma, Director (IS&P), BHEL, with senior officials in attendance. Shri S M Ramanathan, Director (E, R&D), BHEL, and Shri Umesh Chowdhary, Vice Chairman & Managing Director, TRSL, participated virtually.
The Vande Bharat Sleeper Train project is being executed by a BHEL-led consortium in partnership with TRSL. The traction converters will be sent to Kolkata for final assembly of the sleeper trains. In addition, BHEL has developed and manufactured other key propulsion components—such as traction motors and transformers—at its Bhopal and Jhansi units, highlighting strong in-house engineering capabilities.
A notable feature of this system is its underslung design, where propulsion equipment is mounted beneath the train coaches. This configuration frees up valuable onboard space, improves payload capacity, and enhances passenger comfort—an essential requirement for long-distance overnight journeys. The trains are equipped with IGBT-based traction converters, enabling an operational speed of up to 160 kmph and a design speed of 176 kmph, supported by advanced thermal management systems for reliable performance.
From a market perspective, BHEL’s stock has remained in focus. The company’s 52-week low stands at ₹176, while the 52-week high is ₹305.90. As of today, the stock is trading around ₹294, approximately 3% lower on the day, yet still close to its annual high—reflecting sustained investor interest amid strong order inflows and execution visibility.
As India’s leading PSU in energy, infrastructure, and transportation, BHEL’s entry into the semi-high-speed train propulsion segment further strengthens its long-term growth narrative. By indigenising complex railway technologies, the company continues to play a meaningful role in shaping the future of India’s modern rail network.
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