AN INDUSTRIAL VISIT REPORT

ON
BANARAS LOCOMOTIVE WORKS (BLW)
(FRIDAY, 19TH DEC, 2023)
Submitted in partial fulfilment for the award of the degree of
Bachelor’s of Business Administration – International Business
(Session 2021-2024)

Prepared By
SHAMBHAVI SINHA
Roll no. – BBA(IB)2021008
ST. XAVIER’S COLLEGE OF MANAGEMENT AND
TECHNOLOGY, PATNA
NAAC Accredited with B++ Grade (1st cycle)
Affiliated by
ARYABHATTA KNOWLEDGE UNIVERSITY, PATNA

SUBMITTED TO
DR. NIHARIKA KUMARI
HEAD OF DEPARTMENT
DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMICS

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 COMPANY PROFILE

Founded in 1961 as the DLW, it manufactures locomotives which are variants

based on the original ALC Founded in 1961 as the DLW, it manufactures
locomotives which are variants based on the original The Diesel Locomotives
Works is situated in Varanasi. The Indian Railways operates a fleet of diesel and
electric locomotives, along with several compressed natural gas (CNG). The
Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW) in Varanasi is a production unit of Indian
Railways. ALCO. In July 2006, it outsourced manufacture of some locomotives
to Parel Workshop, Central Railway, Mumbai.

DLW stopped manufacturing diesel locomotives in March 2019 and was renamed
BLW in October 2020.O. In July 2006, it outsourced manufacture of some
locomotives to Parel Workshop, Central Railway, Mumbai.

DLW stopped manufacturing diesel locomotives in March 2019 and was renamed
BLW in October 2020.

Besides the Indian Railways, BLW regularly exports locomotives to other

countries such as Bangladesh, Sri
Lanka, Nepal, Mali, Senegal, Tanzania, Angola, Mozambique, and Vietnam and
also to a few users within India, such as ports, large power and steel plants and
private railways.[

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Diesel Locomotive Works (DLW) was established in 1961 in collaboration with
M/s ALCO, USA in the ancient holy city of Varanasi to undertake indigenous
manufacture of diesel electric locomotives for meeting increasing transportation
needs of Indian Railways.
It had Deendayal Locomotive Works, Banaras Locomotive Works and Kashi
Locomotive Works. The name of the Diesel Locomotive Works (DLW) in
Varanasi, which supplies diesel rail locomotives to several countries as well as
Indian Railways, has been changed. Now it will be known as Banaras Locomotive
Works (BLW).
The Diesel Locomotives Works is situated in Varanasi. The Indian Railways
operates a fleet of diesel and electric locomotives, along with several compressed
natural gas (CNG). The Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW) in Varanasi is a
production unit of Indian Railways.

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OBJECTIVE OF THE VISIT: -

• Understanding Industrial Processes:

Gain a practical understanding of the manufacturing processes involved in

the production of diesel locomotives. This can include aspects such as
design, fabrication, assembly, and quality control.

• Technological Exposure:

Explore the advanced technologies and machinery used in locomotive

manufacturing. Understand how automation and precision play a crucial
role in the production of complex engineering products.

• Practical Application of Engineering Concepts:

Witness how theoretical concepts learned in the classroom are applied in

real-world industrial scenarios. Connect textbook knowledge to practical
applications in a manufacturing setting.

• Quality Control and Assurance:

Learn about the rigorous quality control measures implemented in DLW to

ensure that the locomotives meet the required standards and specifications.
Understand the importance of quality assurance in large-scale
manufacturing.

• Supply Chain Management:

Gain insights into the supply chain processes involved in sourcing raw
materials, managing inventory, and coordinating various stages of
production to meet market demand.

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• Safety Protocols:

Understand the safety measures and protocols implemented in an industrial

setting. Learn about the importance of adhering to safety standards and
regulations in large-scale manufacturing operations.

• Environmental Impact:

Explore how DLW addresses environmental concerns related to

manufacturing processes. Learn about sustainable practices and initiatives
aimed at minimizing the ecological footprint of industrial activities.

• Interaction with Industry Professionals:

Interact with engineers, technicians, and other professionals working at

DLW. Gain valuable insights into their career paths, challenges, and
experiences in the field of locomotive manufacturing.

• Career Exploration:

Explore potential career opportunities in the field of mechanical

engineering, manufacturing, and related industries. Gain a better
understanding of the skills and qualifications required for roles in such
industries.

• Networking Opportunities:

Use the visit as an opportunity to network with professionals in the

industry. Establishing connections with experienced individuals can be
beneficial for future career prospects and gaining insights into industry
trends.

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DETAILS OF THE JOURNEY: -

During our industrial visit to DLW in Varanasi, we had the opportunity to gain a
deeper understanding of the manufacturing processes and operations involved in
the production of locomotives and other railway equipment. We were able to
observe first-hand the significant differences between the developed and
developing countries in terms of the quality and productivity of materials
handling operations, transport infrastructure, modal split, and the challenges
faced. Additionally, we learned about DLW's efforts to integrate into the Western
European railway network by developing standard gauge railways. Furthermore,
we discovered that DLW has been addressing various issues such as excessive
labor, lack of safety measures, poor infrastructure, and public service obligations
through initiated policies and restructuring models

During the visit, we also learned about DLW's collaboration with General Motors
of USA, which led to the establishment of a locomotive engine assembly unit in
Varanasi. We were informed that DLW has increased its local content in
locomotive manufacturing through active research on energy-saving
technologies. Furthermore, we had the opportunity to learn about the benefits of
implementing the Six Sigma concept in the railway industry, as discussed by
foreign researcher Vaidya in his study on process improvement in DLW. Overall,
the industrial visit to DLW Varanasi was a valuable experience that allowed us
to gain insights into the manufacturing processes and operations of locomotives
and railway equipment at DLW Varanasi. During our visit to DLW Varanasi, we
gained a deeper understanding of the manufacturing processes and operations
involved in producing locomotives and railway equipment at DLW which is
located in Varanasi, India

DLW Varanasi, a renowned manufacturer of locomotives and railway equipment,

welcomed us for an insightful industrial visit. Our visit provided a profound
understanding of the manufacturing processes and operations involved at DLW.
We delved into various aspects including quality and productivity of materials
handling operations, transport infrastructure, and the challenges faced in an
evolving railway industry. Additionally, we explored DLW's efforts to integrate
into the Western European railway network and its collaboration with General
Motors of USA, which has led to the establishment of a locomotive engine
assembly unit in Varanasi. Furthermore, our visit shed light on DLW's initiatives
to address issues such as excessive labor, lack of safety measures, poor
infrastructure, and public service obligations through policy reforms and
restructuring models. Moreover, we gained insights into the benefits of
implementing the Six Sigma concept in the railway industry as discussed by
foreign researcher Vaidya in his study on process improvement in DLW.

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Addressing Challenges and Implementing Reforms

Our interaction with the management and key personnel at DLW enabled us to
gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the company and the
proactive measures taken to address them. The discussions revealed the
company's strategic initiatives to optimize labor efficiency, enhance safety
standards, and upgrade the infrastructure to align with global industry standards.
Furthermore, the insights we gathered on the implementation of policy reforms
and restructuring models shed light on the company's adaptive approach to
mitigating operational challenges and fulfilling public service obligations.

Strategic Collaborations and Technological Innovations

The visit also provided valuable insights into DLW's strategic collaborations and
technological innovations that have significantly contributed to the company's
growth and competitiveness in the global market. We learned about the impactful
collaboration with General Motors of USA, which not only facilitated the
establishment of a locomotive engine assembly unit but also fostered knowledge
transfer and technology exchange. Additionally, the emphasis on increasing local
content in locomotive manufacturing through research on energy-saving
technologies showcased DLW's commitment to sustainability and localization.

Overall, the industrial visit to DLW Varanasi was an immersive experience that
provided us with a profound understanding of the manufacturing processes,
operational challenges, strategic initiatives, and technological advancements at
the forefront of the railway industry.

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OBSERVATIONS AND LEARNINGS: -
• Manufacturing Processes:

Witnessing the various stages of manufacturing processes involved in the

production of diesel locomotives, including machining, welding,
assembly, and testing.

• Technology and Innovation:

Understanding the incorporation of cutting-edge technologies,

automation, and innovation in the production of locomotives, and how
these advancements contribute to efficiency and product quality.

• Quality Control Measures:

Observing the rigorous quality control measures and testing procedures

implemented to ensure that each locomotive meets the required safety and
performance standards.

• Engineering Design:

Learning about the engineering design aspects of locomotives, including

the considerations for structural integrity, aerodynamics, and overall
performance.

• Supply Chain Management:

Understanding the logistics and supply chain management involved in

sourcing raw materials, managing inventory, and coordinating the flow of
components for efficient production.

• Safety Protocols:

Observing the strict safety protocols in place to protect workers and

ensure a safe working environment. This may include the use of personal
protective equipment, safety training, and emergency response
procedures.

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• Environmental Sustainability:

Exploring how DLW addresses environmental concerns, including waste

management, energy efficiency, and sustainable practices in
manufacturing.

• Interdisciplinary Collaboration:

Recognizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, as various

engineering disciplines and professionals work together to design,
produce, and test locomotives.

• Career Insights:

Interacting with industry professionals to gain insights into potential

career paths, skill requirements, and the day-to-day responsibilities of
individuals working in the field of locomotive manufacturing.

• Teamwork and Communication:

Understanding the significance of effective teamwork and

communication in a large-scale manufacturing environment, where
coordination among different departments is crucial for success.

• Global Impact:

Realizing the global impact of DLW's production, as diesel locomotives

manufactured here contribute to transportation networks and economic
development not only in India but potentially in other countries as well.

• Appreciation for Industrial Scale:

Developing an appreciation for the scale of operations involved in a

facility like DLW, from the vast production floor to the intricate
coordination required for efficient functioning.

• Career Networking:

Building connections with professionals in the industry and recognizing

the value of networking for future career opportunities and mentorship.

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