Haryana becomes first state in India to have 100% electrified railway network (GS Paper-3, Science & Tech.)
Why in news?
- In March 2023, the railway network in the state of Haryana in India has been completely electrified by Indian Railways, making it the first state in the country to achieve 100% electrification of its railway network.
Haryana: 100% Electrified Railway Network:
- The existing Broad Gauge network of Haryana is 1,701 Route kilometre, which is now 100% electrified, resulting in saving on account of reduced line haul cost (about 2.5 times lower), heavier haulage capacity, increased sectional capacity, reduced operating & maintenance cost of electric loco, energy efficient and eco-friendly mode of transportation with reduced dependence on imported crude oil, saving of foreign exchange.
- Further, new Broad Gauge network shall be sanctioned along with electrification, in sync with Railways’ policy of 100% electrified network.
Indian Railways: 100% electrification of its broad-gauge routes by December 2023:
- As per the latest updates, the Broad Gauge routes of seven zonal railways in India have achieved the 100% electrification target.
- These railways are East Coast Railway (ECoR), North Central Railway (NCR), North Eastern Railway (NER), Eastern Railway (ER), South Eastern Railway (SER), West Central Railway (WCR), and Central Railway (CR).
- This achievement is a significant step towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable transportation in the country.
Way Forward:
- The Indian Railways has set a target to achieve 100% electrification of its broad-gauge routes by December 2023, and this milestone achieved by these seven zonal railways is a significant step towards achieving this goal.
