Indian Railways has become the world’s largest electrified rail system, completing 100 years of electrification in 2025 and surpassing all other networks globally. Nearly all of India’s 70-thousand route-kilometre broad-gauge network is now powered by electricity. This achievement reflects India’s commitment to sustainability, energy efficiency, and modernization of its transport infrastructure.
🚆 Timeline of Indian Railways Electrification
| Year | Milestone | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1925 | First electric train | Ran between Bombay VT (now CSMT) and Kurla Harbour Line, using 1.5 kV DC |
| 1930s–40s | Expansion in Western Ghats | Electrification extended to Igatpuri and Pune to tackle steep gradients |
| 1950s | Shift to 25 kV AC system | Adopted globally accepted standard for efficiency and scalability |
| 1970s–80s | Rapid expansion | Major trunk routes electrified, reducing reliance on steam/diesel traction |
| 2000s | Policy push | Government emphasized electrification for energy security and reduced imports of diesel |
| 2014–2023 | Accelerated drive | Electrification speed increased to ~6,000 km per year under national mission |
| 2023 | 100% electrification of broad-gauge routes | Indian Railways announced completion of electrification across all broad-gauge tracks |
| 2025 | 100 years of electrification | India celebrated a century since the first electric train, marking itself as the largest electrified rail network globally |
🌍 Global Context
- Indian Railways operates over 68,000 route km, of which 100% broad-gauge is electrified.
- This makes it the largest electrified rail network in the world, ahead of countries like China and Russia in terms of route length electrified.
- Electrification reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels, cuts greenhouse gas emissions, and supports India’s climate commitments.
🔑 Key Facts
- First electric locomotive: “Sir Leslie Wilson” introduced in 1925.
- Technology shift: From 1.5 kV DC to 25 kV AC, aligning with global standards.
- Environmental impact: Electrification expected to save billions of liters of diesel annually and reduce CO₂ emissions significantly.
- Economic impact: Lower operating costs, faster trains, and improved reliability.
