Indian Railway Electrification from 2018 to 2024

The electrification of Indian Railways has seen significant progress between 2018 and 2024, reflecting the government’s commitment to achieving a fully electrified and carbon-neutral railway network. The data shows a steady increase in electrified route kilometres, demonstrating accelerated efforts toward sustainability. In 2018-19, India had 34,300 km of electrified railway routes, accounting for 50.9% of the total railway network (67,400 km). By 2019-20, the electrified routes expanded to 39,900 km, reaching 58.8% coverage. The addition of 5,600 km of new electrification highlights a strong push for railway modernization. The trend continued in 2020-21, with electrification reaching 44,800 km, covering 65.8% of the railway network. 2021-22 saw a further increase, with electrification reaching 51,080 km, bringing the coverage to 75.1%, marking a crucial step in transitioning toward a fully electrified network. In 2022-23, electrification accelerated to 58,070 km, covering 84.7% of the network. This was one of the most significant annual increases, reflecting an intensified push toward sustainability. By 2023-24, the electrified network had expanded to 62,250 km, accounting for 89.9% of total railway routes (69,180 km), indicating that Indian Railways is on the verge of full electrification. The electrified network grew by 27,950 km in just six years, showcasing an aggressive expansion strategy. By 2023-24, almost 90% of railway routes were electrified, indicating that Indian Railways is close to achieving a fully electrified network, aligning with the government’s net-zero emissions target. Electrification reduces fuel costs, enhances operational efficiency, and contributes to India’s carbon neutrality goals, reinforcing its role in green transportation. With full electrification expected in the coming years, Indian Railways is set to become a global leader in sustainable railway transport. This transformation will not only reduce operational costs and enhance efficiency but also significantly cut carbon emissions, aligning with India’s broader environmental commitments. The electrification journey from 50.9% in 2018-19 to 89.9% in 2023-24 showcases the rapid modernization of India’s railway infrastructure, paving the way for a more energy-efficient and eco-friendly future.