20.03.2025, 20:30
Kazakhstan Upgrades Its Locomotive Fleet: Plans and Prospects for Modernizing Railway Transport
185 units were purchased in 2024, another 200 are planned for 2025
Kazakhstan's railway sector is facing an urgent need to renew its locomotive fleet. Currently, 1,807 locomotives are in operation, with 6 1% of them having reached a significant level of wear and tear. The primary reason for this high degree of depreciation is the lack of new locomotive purchases over the past 20 years.
To address the shortage of traction rolling stock and reduce wear levels, 185 new locomotives were purchased in 2024. In 2025, another 200 units are planned for procurement. As part of this program, a contract has already been signed with the Chinese company CRRC for the supply of 200 locomotives, of which 100 are intended for mainline transportation and 100 for shunting operations. According to the delivery plan, 94 units will arrive in Kazakhstan in 2025, with two locomotives already undergoing testing.
In the long term, the fleet renewal program will continue: by 2028, 446 locomotives are scheduled for acquisition. This measure is expected not only to eliminate the existing shortage but also to significantly improve the reliability of railway transportation in the country.
Strategic Importance of Fleet Renewal
Railway transport remains a key component of Kazakhstan's logistics system, ensuring the transportation of goods and passengers over long distances. With increasing infrastructure demands, updating the locomotive fleet has become a priority to maintain stability and efficiency in transportation.
Moreover, modernization will help reduce maintenance costs for outdated locomotives, enhance safety, and ensure uninterrupted railway operations. According to experts, investments in new rolling stock will also positively impact speed and transport quality, which is especially crucial for the agricultural sector, heavily reliant on railway transport for exporting agricultural products.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
🔹 61% wear and tear – 1,807 locomotives are in operation, many of which have become outdated due to a lack of purchases in the last 20 years.
🔹 Acquisition of 446 locomotives – 185 units were purchased in 2024, another 200 are planned for 2025, with some already undergoing testing.
🔹 Enhanced reliability – Fleet renewal will reduce repair costs, improve safety, and optimize logistics, which is particularly important for the agricultural sector.