In a recent announcement, senior railway officials have emphasised the significance of a dedicated budget allocation of Rs 6,500 crore in the fiscal year 2024-25 towards achieving complete electrification of India’s rail network. This initiative comes on the heels of a remarkable accomplishment, with 95 per cent of the Broad Gauge already electrified.

Highlighting the importance of the allocated budget, a senior railway official stated, “With a dedicated budget of Rs 6,500 Crores during FY 2024-25 for further electrification projects, India remains committed to achieving complete electrification. This will not only revolutionise the railway system but also contribute significantly to the country’s sustainability goals.”

Electrification: A Catalyst for Growth

Moreover, the electrification program is not solely about environmental benefits; it’s a catalyst for economic growth. The initiative generates employment opportunities during construction, reduces reliance on imported fossil fuels, and positions Indian Railways as a modern and efficient engine of the nation’s economy.

Railway officials assert that India is making significant strides towards a sustainable future by rapidly electrifying its vast network. During the fiscal year 2023-24, the Railways electrified 7,188 route kilometres, marking a historic accomplishment with immense potential for the nation’s economic and environmental well-being.

Massive Push in Electrification Projects

The significant push in electrification projects has led Indian Railways to achieve nearly 95 per cent electrification of its Broad Gauge (BG) network. With 21 states and UTs now equipped with seamless traction facility, Indian Railways has achieved a significant milestone.

Highlighting the transition from diesel locomotives to electric trains, another senior official emphasised the cleaner and more efficient alternative electric trains offer. This transition reduces dependence on fossil fuels and slashes greenhouse gas emissions. By 2027-28, the shift to electric traction is projected to cut carbon emissions by a notable 24 per cent.

During FY 2023-24, several crucial sections were electrified, including Ahmedabad-Rajkot-Okha (499 km), Bengaluru-Talguppa (371 km), and Bhatinda-Firozpur-Jalandhar (301 km), as per Economic Times report.

Over the last decade, over 42,000 kilometres of tracks have been electrified, bringing the total electrified network to an impressive 95 per cent of the broad-gauge network.

In conclusion, India’s railways are on an electrification journey that not only promises a cleaner and more sustainable future but also signifies a significant step towards modernising the nation’s transportation infrastructure.