Indian Railways (IR) has made remarkable progress in the electrification of its Broad Gauge (BG) railway network, adopting a mission-driven approach. Since 2014-15, Indian Railways has completed the electrification of approximately 45,200 Route Kilometers (RKM), marking a significant increase in pace from 1.42 km/day (2004-14) to 19.7 km/day (2023-24). Currently, about 97% of the BG network stands electrified.
Electrification has proven to be a pivotal step in making railway operations more environmentally friendly and economical, with electric traction being approximately 70% cheaper than diesel traction. This transition not only reduces carbon emissions but also aligns with India’s broader goals of sustainability and energy efficiency.
To ensure the reliability of electric operations, Indian Railways has implemented a robust power supply system. This system includes:
- Connections to the National Grid through state and central transmission utilities.
- Redundant Power Sources at grid and traction substations to guarantee uninterrupted services.
- Multiple safeguards to mitigate potential power supply disruptions, ensuring the seamless operation of electric trains.
The substantial electrification progress underscores Indian Railways’ commitment to modernizing its infrastructure and enhancing operational efficiency while promoting sustainable practices.