India celebrated 100 years since the introduction of its first electric train on 3 February, marking a major milestone in railway modernisation.
Over the past century, the country has electrified 64,547 km of its broad gauge railway network, with Gujarat achieving 97 per cent electrification, making it one of the most electrified states in India, as reported by the Desh Gujarat.
Gujarat’s Rapid Railway Electrification
As of 31 December 2024, Gujarat’s broad gauge railway network spans 4,087 km, out of which 3,972 km have been electrified, leaving only 115 km pending.
The completion of the Ahmedabad-Himmatnagar-Udaipur Railway Line electrification project further boosts connectivity and efficiency in the region.
The electrification of railway lines allows for the operation of electric locomotives, which require overhead electric lines and substations at key points.
These developments significantly improve energy efficiency, reduce fuel dependency, and lower emissions, making train travel more sustainable and cost-effective.
Major Progress Since 2014
Railway electrification in Gujarat has witnessed remarkable growth over the past decade.
On 1 April 2014, only 785 km of railway tracks in the state were electrified. Since then, an additional 3,187 km—nearly 80 per cent of Gujarat’s broad gauge network—has been electrified, reflecting the government’s commitment to modernising railway infrastructure.
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