India on the verge of a rail milestone: 99% of broad-gauge network now electrified

The pace of electrification in recent years has been unprecedented.

Between 2019 and 2025, Indian Railways electrified more than 33,000 route kilometres, averaging over 15 route kilometres every day.

The distance electrified during this period alone is nearly equivalent to the entire railway network of Germany, underscoring the scale and intensity of India’s push towards clean rail traction.

At present, India’s broad-gauge rail network has achieved 99.2 per cent electrification, covering 25 states and Union Territories.“India’s achievement stands out even when compared with countries that have long-established railway systems.

Despite operating one of the world’s largest and busiest rail networks, India has successfully electrified nearly its entire broad-gauge system,” a government statement said.

The transition to electric traction has led to significant reductions in diesel consumption and emissions, while also lowering operating costs and improving train efficiency and speeds.

While several advanced economies continue to rely heavily on diesel traction due to cost or structural constraints, India has advanced with sustained planning and consistent execution, the statement added.

“With the completion of the final stretches, India is set to operate one of the world’s largest fully electrified railway networks, supporting Indian Railways’ goal of becoming a net-zero carbon emitter and delivering cleaner, faster and more reliable mobility to millions of passengers every day,” it said.