Context
Indian Railways has electrified about 99.6% of its broad-gauge network, making India one of the world’s most extensively electrified large railway systems. Electrification has sharply reduced diesel consumption, carbon emissions and dependence on imported fossil fuels.
Explanation
- Railway electrification replaces diesel traction with energy-efficient electric locomotives.
- India electrified 48,072 route km during 2014–26, compared with 21,801 km before 2014.
- Rail emits about 11.5 g CO₂ per tonne-km, nearly 89% less than road transport.
- Diesel use fell from 293 crore litres in 2015–16 to 108 crore litres in 2024–25.
- Electrification improves speed, haulage capacity and freight efficiency.
- Renewable integration includes about 1,161 MW solar and 103 MW wind capacity.
- Switzerland remains ahead with 100% railway electrification.
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Broad-Gauge Electrification: India’s Rail Transformation