BEML seeks Rs 50 cr Army order for coaches

Bangalore-based Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) is pitching for 100-150 'milrail' coaches' order valued over Rs 50 crore from the Indian Army.

Milrail coaches are military rail coaches deployed by the armed forces for movement of troops across the country. These coaches are incorporated with features like bogie-mounted airbrake cylinder, rubber vestibules, cushion seats, telecom facilities and can accommodate 72 passengers.

"The order for 50 coaches valued around Rs 20 crore is ready for dispatch. A few years ago the company had executed an order for 75 coaches valued at Rs 30 crore," a senior company official said.

The company is also pitching for substantial Indian Army's order for Tatra heavy duty trucks. It is said, the Indian Army order is for 1,400 trucks valued over Rs 700 crore.

BEML on Saturday, rolled out BFAT (flat military rail wagons) ordered by the Indian Army. BFAT wagons are used to transport battle tanks, heavy artillery equipment and other military vehicles.

The company has bagged 178 BFAT wagons. But due to wheel shortage in the country, the company is behind schedule to dispatch wagons. And has been able to roll out first batch of 29 wagons.

"The remaining 149 are awaiting wheel imports and would be completed in 2-3 months," said BEML chairman and managing director V R S Natarajan.

The chief of Army staff, general J J Singh flagged off the first wagon.