Interpipe Completes Major 10,000 Railway Wheel Order for Indian Railways

Interpipe

Ukrainian industrial giant Interpipe has successfully delivered 10,000 railway wheels to Indian Railways, overcoming logistical challenges and reinforcing its global market position.

Strategic Contract Amid Geopolitical Challenges

Interpipe, a leading Ukrainian pipe and wheel manufacturer, has completed a major contract for the supply of 10,000 railway wheels to Indian Railways, a state-owned enterprise. This marks the first large-scale order from India’s national railway operator since the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine, making it a significant milestone for the company.

The contract required the supply of 1,000 mm diameter wheels, used in BOXN Wagon gondola cars and boxcars. All deliveries were completed ahead of schedule by the end of 2024, demonstrating Interpipe’s commitment to reliability despite external disruptions.

Navigating Supply Chain Disruptions

The shipment process faced substantial logistical hurdles, primarily due to the Red Sea shipping crisis, which forced longer transit routes around Africa. Most wheels were transported via European seaports, while the final batches were shipped through Ukrainian ports. Despite these obstacles, Interpipe successfully delivered the wheels on time.

Aleksandr Garkavij, Director of Interpipe’s Railway Products Division, emphasized the importance of fulfilling the contract:

“This large one-year order was the first since the full-scale Russian invasion into Ukraine began, so it was extremely important for us to fulfill it successfully and ahead of schedule. In January 2025, we received the next order from Indian Railways, and we plan to double our freight wheel deliveries this year.”

Continued Investments Amidst War

Despite operating in a war-affected region, Interpipe continues to invest in its production facilities. The company has allocated $83 million toward enhancing product quality and expanding production lines, including a pipe rolling shop in Nikopol. These investments underscore Interpipe’s commitment to maintaining high standards and meeting global demand.

As a top 10 global seamless pipe producer and a top 3 railway wheel manufacturer, Interpipe remains a key player in the global railway supply chain, strengthening its foothold in strategic markets like India.