Indian Railways is set to commemorate a century of electrification on 3 February, marking 100 years since the first electric train ran between Victoria Terminus (now Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus) and Kurla in Mumbai. The 16-kilometre journey in 1925 was a milestone in modernising railway transport in India.
The Central Railway has planned special events, including the operation of a train tracing the original route. A commemorative logo has also been unveiled to highlight the century-long transformation of the railway network. Railway stations along the route will be decorated, and exhibitions will showcase the evolution of electrification in India.
Electrification has significantly reduced dependence on fossil fuels, increased efficiency, and modernised one of the world’s largest railway networks. Over the years, the initiative has contributed to lowering operational costs and reducing carbon emissions. Currently, nearly 97% of India’s broad-gauge network is electrified, with full electrification expected soon, aligning with the country’s sustainability goals.
Swapnil Nila, Chief Public Relations Officer of Central Railway, noted that electrification has played a crucial role in advancing railway infrastructure. The centenary celebrations highlight the progress made and the shift towards a sustainable future. Railway officials emphasise that ongoing projects aim to enhance energy efficiency and further integrate renewable energy sources into the system.
As events unfold, Indian Railways continues to focus on innovation and efficiency, marking a significant chapter in its history while moving towards complete electrification. Looking ahead, authorities aim to introduce more energy-efficient rolling stock, strengthen the use of green energy, and implement smart grid systems to optimise power consumption across the railway network.
