Railways: 99.2% of broad gauge network electrified
Next story · 14 DecRailways: 42,600+ LHB coaches made in 11 years
What happened
- Indian Railways has electrified 99.2% of its broad gauge network, covering 25 States and UTs [PIB].
- Between 2019 and 2025 it electrified over 33,000 route km, more than 15 route km a day, which PIB compares to the whole German rail network [PIB].
Background
- Railways aim to be a net-zero carbon emitter by 2030. Electric traction is the base for that, but the power itself must come from clean sources.
Why it matters
- Electrification cuts diesel imports and running costs. It also removes engine changes at section boundaries, which speeds up trains.
How to use this in Mains
- As per PIB (2025-12-14): indian Railways has electrified 99.2% of its broad gauge network, covering 25 States and UTs.
- Electrification cuts diesel imports and running costs. It also removes engine changes at section boundaries, which speeds up trains.
Quotable data pointBetween 2019 and 2025 it electrified over 33,000 route km, more than 15 route km a day, which PIB compares to the whole German rail network.
PIB: Railways: Rail electrification nears completion, 14 Dec 2025
Exam angle
UPSC
Prelims: rail electrification.
Practice MCQs
Original practice questions (not PYQs).
Practice · UPSC
Share of broad gauge network electrified
Answer (c) & explanation
PIB.
Practice · UPSC
Route km electrified 2019-2025
Answer (b) & explanation
PIB.
Practice · UPSC
Average daily pace cited
Answer (b) & explanation
PIB.
Go deeper
Official source: PIB: Railways: Rail electrification nears completion, 14 Dec 2025
facts from cited sources only; faculty review pending