RITES enters partnership with Botswana to upgrade rail and transport networks

State-owned engineering and consultancy firm RITES Ltd has entered into a strategic partnership with the Government of Botswana to support the modernisation and expansion of the country’s transport infrastructure, with a strong focus on rail systems.

The memorandum of understanding was signed in Gurugram on December 19, with Botswana represented by its Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, according to an exchange filing by RITES.

The collaboration is aimed at strengthening Botswana’s transport ecosystem by deploying modern technologies, global best practices and targeted capacity-building initiatives to improve operational efficiency, safety standards and system reliability.

As part of the agreement, RITES will provide technical support for the development and upgrading of Botswana’s railway infrastructure. This includes assistance in rolling stock supply, system commissioning, operations and maintenance, repair services, and the modernisation of railway workshops.

Beyond railways, the partnership also covers a wider range of infrastructure projects such as highways, bridges, airports and buildings, reflecting a comprehensive approach to transport development.

RITES will additionally support human resource development through training and skill enhancement programmes, promote knowledge-sharing initiatives, and deliver quality assurance services including third-party inspections, pre-shipment checks and final acceptance testing. The company will also deploy advanced digital solutions, such as integrated train operations and passenger management systems, to support efficient transport management across the network.