Indian Railways is on the brink of becoming the world's largest green rail network, nearing full electrification of its expansive 68,000-kilometer network. As of December 2024, approximately 97% of the Broad Gauge network has been electrified, a significant leap from 95% in August. Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw announced this milestone in a recent Lok Sabha address, crediting the electrification of over 45,200 route kilometers since 2014-15. The progress reflects a shift from electrifying just 1.42 kilometers per day (2004-2014) to an impressive 19.7 kilometers daily in 2023-24.

This electrification drive is pivotal to Indian Railways’ ambitious goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030, aligning with global sustainability efforts. Electric traction is approximately 70% more economical than diesel, offering significant cost and environmental advantages while enhancing operational efficiency.

The electrification initiative is expected to revolutionise freight transportation in India. Electric locomotives enable faster speeds, reduced transit times, and lower operational costs, making rail freight a more attractive alternative to road and air logistics. Industries such as steel, cement, and coal are poised to benefit from lower tariffs and improved bulk transport efficiency.

Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFCs), like the Eastern and Western corridors, further amplify this transformation. Designed for higher loads and faster transit, these corridors, when paired with electrification, ensure seamless goods movement, reduce road congestion, and enhance environmental sustainability.

The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) is also accelerating electrification efforts in its jurisdiction, extending green rail benefits to remote regions. These advancements underline Indian Railways’ commitment to enhancing connectivity while positioning itself as a global leader in sustainable transportation.

(logisticsinsider)