Indian Railways Achieves 99% Electrification of Broad-Gauge Network

Indian Railways is on the verge of fully electrifying its broad-gauge network, with more than 99 percent of the system already operating on electric traction, the Ministry of Railways has said. The remaining stretches are expected to be completed soon, bringing the country close to a fully electrified broad-gauge network across its vast rail system.

India’s broad-gauge rail network now has 99.2 percent electrification coverage, spanning 25 states and union territories, the official statement noted.

Record Electrification Pace Since 2019

In its statement, the Ministry highlighted the dramatic acceleration in electrification over the last few years. 

Between 2019 and 2025, Indian Railways electrified over 33,000 route kilometres, working at an average speed of more than 15 route kilometres every single day.

The distance electrified during this period alone is almost equal to the entire railway network of Germany, underlining the scale and seriousness with which India has expanded clean and efficient rail traction in a short span of time. However, this does not mean diesel locos will dissappear, as trhe country has contractual obligations to use these due to earlier manufacturing deals, notably with GE, that entails purchasing 1000 diesel locomotives from GE's manufacturing plant in India till 2026. Most diesel locos today are used for shunting purposes and key freight corridors.  

Towards a Net-Zero Railway System

With the remaining non-electrified stretches set to be completed soon, India is poised to operate one of the world’s largest fully electrified railway systems.

This achievement is in line with the Indian Railways’ broader objective of becoming a net-zero carbon emitter in the coming years.

Indian Railway has set a target of becoming Net Zero Carbon Emitter by 2030.