Turkmen Locomotives Return to Service After Large-Scale Modernization in China
A batch of diesel locomotives operated in Turkmenistan have successfully undergone major repairs and deep modernization at CRRC Ziyang Locomotive Co., Ltd. in China. After completion of all work on July 18, the locomotives successfully rolled off the assembly line and will soon be sent back to Turkmenistan to resume operation on the country's railways.
These locomotives, which are the first batch of products exported by CRRC Ziyang to Turkmenistan, have been in operation for an average of 20 years and have covered more than 2 million kilometers. By the time of repair, their technical characteristics had significantly deteriorated, and some parts required major replacement.
At the end of 2024, CRRC Ziyang signed a contract with Turkmenistan Demiryollary to carry out systematic maintenance and technical re-equipment of these locomotives. This was the first time that Turkmen diesel locomotives were returned to the factory in China for major repairs.
The batch of locomotives arrived at CRRC Ziyang in May 2025. The project involved precision repairs of key components such as bogies, diesel engines and electrical systems. In addition, the locomotives were deeply integrated with new-generation intelligent control systems, safety monitoring systems and ergonomic optimization technologies.
With this upgrade, the locomotives, which have been in operation for nearly two decades, now meet new-generation technical standards in parameters such as intelligent safety. CRRC Ziyang also conducted systematic technical training for Turkmen technicians and developed standardized technical manuals to establish an effective on-site maintenance system.
The cooperation between CRRC Ziyang and Turkmenistan Railways began in 2004 and has been constantly evolving. It has evolved from simple export to cooperation along the entire industrial chain, including vehicle supply, spare parts and factory repair.
To date, CRRC Ziyang has exported 294 locomotives to Turkmenistan, which account for more than 98% of local railway transportation.
The successful implementation of this overhaul project not only gives new impetus to the international model of “product + service” cooperation, but also serves as a shining example of successful cooperation in the field of railway transport among countries participating in the “One Belt, One Road” initiative.
Source: Sichuan Online
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