New Delhi: Indian Railways has completed electrification of 97% of broad gauge railway lines, achieving a major milestone in electrification. Minister for Railways, Information and Broadcasting, Electronics and Information Technology Ashwini Vaishnav gave this information in a written reply in the Lok Sabha.
He said that since 2014-15, about 45,200 route kilometers of the broad gauge network have been electrified. The speed of electrification has also increased significantly. While an average of 1.42 kilometers of electrification per day was carried out during 2004-14, it increased to 19.7 kilometers per day in 2023-24.
The minister stated that electric railway engines are more environmentally friendly and approximately 70% more economical than diesel engines. He also reported that reliable power supply has been guaranteed for the operation of the electric train. Under this, provision has been made for connection to the national grid and additional power sources in the grid and traction substations so that services continue without interruption.
Indian Railways aims to become a global leader in the field of “green railways” and completely eliminate carbon emissions. To achieve this, the electrification of the rail transport system is an important step.
Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) is rapidly electrifying all remaining broad gauge lines in its region. Its goal is to achieve the goals of 100% electrification and zero carbon emissions. Other railway zones are also working quickly on this campaign. This Railways initiative is helping to take the country towards a modern and environmentally friendly railway network.
