In an exciting news to the rail fans of the region, South Western Railway (SWR) has commissioned the first WAP7 locomotive belonging to the Hubballi Loco Shed.
Named as ‘Bhadra’ after the River Bhadra, the locomotive was commissioned yesterday at Hubballi Loco Shed. It is the first WAP7 to be homed at Hubballi Loco Shed.
A formal pooja was organised at Hubballi Loco Shed to mark the event. South Western Railway (SWR) officials, employees of Hubballi Loco Shed and Railfans were present during the event.
As of now, 2 WAP7 locomotives have arrived at Hubballi Loco Shed. One of them is commissioned already, the other one is likely to be commissioned within a few days.
WAP7 named as Bhadra was initially allotted to the Krishnarajapuram (KJM) Loco Shed in Bengaluru. But, at the last moment it was transferred to the Hubballi Loco Shed.
A total of 5 WAP7 locomotives have been allocated to the Hubballi Loco Shed. As the country is nearing a feat of 100% electrification, more such locos will be homed at Hubballi in the coming days.
WAP7 is an Indian locomotive of 25kV AC traction primarily used to pull passenger trains. With an output of 6125 HP, it is the most powerful passenger locomotive in India.
Also read: 34 railway stations in SWR to be redeveloped under Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.
The model name WAP7 stands for Broad Gauge (W), AC Current (AC), Passenger traffic locomotive (P) of 7th generation (7). It is capable of hauling 24 coach trains at 110-130kmph.