Indian Railways Achieves 99.4% Electrification, Enhancing Energy Security
Indian Railways has reached 99.4% electrification of its broad gauge network as of January 2026, according to a report by Riding Sunbeams. This milestone has resulted in a reduction of diesel consumption by 178 crore litres in 2024-25, marking a 62% decrease since 2016-17. The report highlights India's reliance on the Strait of Hormuz for nearly 40% of its crude oil imports, underscoring the significance of this achievement for national energy resilience. Indian Railways is a leader in global rail electrification, surpassing major economies like China and the UK. The shift from diesel to electric traction is approximately 70% more economical, contributing to lower operating costs and maintaining affordable passenger fares. With over 26 million daily passengers, Indian Railways aims to become a net zero carbon emitter by 2030.
Published 11 hours ago • 06 Mar 2026, 06:17 PM IST