Indian Railways is set to celebrate 100 years of electrification in a grand way this Monday, with a series of special events planned. Take a look at some rare and historic pictures showcasing this incredible journey. (Pics/Western Railway)
Updated on : 02 February,2025 08:15 PM IST | Compiled by : Joy Manikumar
The world's first train began operations in 1825, marking the start of a new era in transportation. India’s first passenger train ran on April 16, 1853, between Mumbai and Thane
On February 3, 1925, India’s first electric train ran between Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CSMT) and Kurla, Mumbai, covering 16 km on 1500V DC
Electrification in South India began in 1931, with the suburban line from Madras Beach (Chennai) to Tambaram
In 1957, the first electrified track in Kolkata was inaugurated between Howrah and Sheoraphuli
The 25 kV AC system was adopted as the standard for Indian Railways in 1957, making India the second country after the Soviet Union to do so
The first 25 kV AC trial was successfully conducted in 1959 on the Rajkharsawan-Dangoaposi section
By 1966, over 50 percent of freight transport in the Eastern and South-Eastern Railway Zones was running on electric traction
Indian Railways introduced the WAP series electric locomotives, improving speed, efficiency, and reliability
Major rail corridors like Delhi-Mumbai, Howrah-Delhi, and Chennai-Delhi were electrified in the 1980s and 1990s
India’s first metro rail system in Kolkata began operations in 1984, fully powered by electricity
In the 2000s, electrification gained momentum, focusing on sustainable and eco-friendly railway networks
The electrification of the Golden Quadrilateral was completed in the 2010s, ensuring electric connectivity across major cities
By 2025, Indian Railways aims to achieve 100 percent electrification of its broad-gauge network, making it one of the largest electrified railway systems in the world
Electrification has enhanced energy efficiency, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering operating costs
The extension of electrified railway lines into hilly terrains like Jammu & Kashmir and the Northeast has improved connectivity
Semi-high-speed trains like Vande Bharat Express operate entirely on electric traction, improving travel speed and efficiency
Indian Railways is integrating renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, to further reduce its carbon footprint
The shift to electric traction has significantly reduced diesel dependence, saving millions of liters of fuel annually
Electrification has led to a major reduction in carbon emissions, contributing to cleaner and greener transportation
Reduced diesel consumption has helped save foreign exchange, as India imports less crude oil. Electric trains are faster, more efficient, and require less maintenance, leading to improved railway operations and punctuality
With a commitment to sustainable and modern railway networks, India’s rail electrification sets the foundation for future high-speed rail projects and green transport solutions
