Union Minister V. Somanna visits Banaras Locomotive Works, praises achievements
Varanasi: Union Minister of State for Railways and Jal Shakti, V. Somanna, visited the Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW) on January 24, 2025, to review its operations and achievements. He praised BLW’s contributions to locomotive production, technological advancements, and its role in the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
On his arrival, General Manager Naresh Pal Singh welcomed the minister, who then toured various workshops, including the New Loco Frame Shop, Loco Assembly Shop, Traction Assembly Shop, Truck Machine Shop, and Loco Test Shop. Somanna also inspected an electric locomotive and sat in the driver’s cab to understand its technical features. To promote environmental awareness, he planted a sapling in the administrative building premises.
During a meeting at BLW’s Hall of Fame, a presentation was given by Principal Chief Electrical Engineer Sushil Kumar Srivastava, highlighting BLW’s achievements, technical expertise, and future plans. The General Manager presented a memento to the minister at the end of the session.
Somanna lauded BLW’s role in India’s locomotive industry, calling it a key contributor to the ‘Make in India - Make for the World’ initiative. He noted BLW’s success in exporting locomotives to 11 countries, including Mozambique, Sudan, and Malaysia. "BLW’s production system is a remarkable example of modern technology and high quality," he said, adding that the dedication of its workforce has brought global recognition to India.
Employee representatives, including the BLW Employees Council and the Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe Association, submitted memorandums to the minister, who assured them that their concerns would be addressed.
General Manager Naresh Pal Singh described BLW as Indian Railways’ leading locomotive production unit, having manufactured over 10,500 locomotives. He called the minister’s visit an inspiration for the organization.
The event was attended by senior officials and department heads. Chief Mechanical Engineer (Production & Marketing) Suneel Kumar concluded the program with a vote of thanks.
Let the Truth be known. If you read VB and like VB, please be a VB Supporter and Help us deliver the Truth to one and all.
Youngster attacked by gang in Koppal: FIR against 30 people; three arrested
Koppal: Police in Koppal City station limits have registered a case against more than 30 people and arrested three in connection with an alleged assault on a youngster over his relationship.
According to the complaint, Sameer Ahmed Moolimani (22), who works at a mobile agency, was sitting at a hotel with his girlfriend around 8:30 pm on May 6 when a group of youngsters approached him and asked his identity. He said that he was attacked after informing them about the relationship.
Sameer said in his complaint: “They blindfolded me, took me on a bike towards the Hospet side of the national highway, and assaulted me. They asked me, ‘Do you love a Hindu girl?’ They also threatened me, saying, ‘If I am seen with her again, I will not leave you alive.’"
He also stated that after the assault, he was blindfolded and later left near the district hospital.
Police have registered a case at Koppal City police station against more than 30 people, including the girl’s brothers Ashish and Nilesh. Three people have been arrested so far, and investigation is in progress.
