BEML seeks Expression of Interests from Global Leaders for Indigenous TBM Manufacturing in India

Bengaluru, India (Metro Rail Today): In a major push towards self-reliance in infrastructure technology, state-owned engineering giant BEML Limited has invited global manufacturers of Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs) to partner on the indigenous development and production of these critical systems in India.

The move, announced through an Expression of Interest (EoI) issued on September 16, aims to establish a long-term technology transfer and manufacturing collaboration with experienced Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). The initiative aligns with the Government of India’s ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ programmes and is being spearheaded by BEML’s Rail and Metro division, which already supplies coaches for several Indian metro systems.

BEML’s Vision for TBM Self-Reliance

The proposed collaboration will cover the design, manufacturing, assembly, testing, commissioning, and maintenance of various types of TBMs—including Earth Pressure Balance (EPB), Slurry, Hard Rock, and Dual Mode machines—ranging from 6 to 16.5 meters in diameter. The aim is to cater to India’s rapidly growing need for advanced tunneling solutions for metro, railway, utility, and urban infrastructure projects.

“India’s tunneling sector is entering a golden era, and indigenous TBM production will be a game-changer,” said a senior official from BEML. “With metro rail and high-speed rail corridors expanding nationwide, localized manufacturing will cut costs, reduce dependence on imports, and build sovereign technical capabilities.”

What BEML is Looking For

BEML is seeking OEMs with a proven global track record in the design and delivery of TBMs. Applicants must be willing to offer comprehensive technology transfer, including engineering documentation, source code of embedded software, quality plans, and long-term support.

The EoI explicitly outlines the desire for partners who can:

• Transfer technology to enable local TBM manufacturing

• Provide 15+ years of lifecycle support

• Train Indian engineers and support indigenous R&D

• Assist in system integration, trials, and handover

• Support BEML in domestic and international bidding processes

Strategic and Economic Significance

The announcement is being seen as a strategic pivot that could transform India into a global hub for tunneling technology. With several new metro corridors, water supply tunnels, and high-speed rail lines in the pipeline, demand for TBMs is expected to surge.

“BEML’s TBM initiative is a landmark step for India’s tunneling self-reliance,” said Mrs. Mamta Shah, MD & CEO of Urban Infra Group. “Indigenous TBM manufacturing will unlock new efficiencies for metro, rail, and infrastructure projects across the country. We are proud to support this bold vision of local innovation and global partnerships.”

BEML is already a key contributor to India’s metro ecosystem, with rolling stock delivered to Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Kolkata Metros. The foray into TBM technology marks a natural extension of its role in infrastructure modernization.

Interested OEMs are expected to submit proposals electronically by October 6, 2025, to bemleoi@bemlltd.in. Detailed queries may be directed to Mr. Madhusudhan B H, General Manager (R&D), BEML at +91-7406897591 or madhusudhan.bh@bemlltd.in.

What Comes Next

Once the partner is selected, BEML plans to begin work on prototype TBMs tailored to Indian geological and urban conditions, with a focus on noise reduction, curve negotiation, and mixed-soil excavation capabilities. The company will leverage its existing manufacturing facilities and R&D infrastructure to fast-track development.