Kundapur: Indian Railways is nearing complete electrification of its broad-gauge network, with only 191 route kilometres (RKm) remaining across Karnataka, Assam and Goa, according to the latest figures reported by the Railway Ministry.

As of September 30, 2026, electrification had been completed across 70,311 route kilometres of the country’s total 70,502-km broad-gauge network. With 27 States and Union Territories already achieving 100% electrification, work is continuing on the remaining sections in the three states.

Karnataka has electrified 96.8% of its network

Karnataka has completed electrification of 96.8% of its broad-gauge railway network, according to the reported figures. The state has a total network of 3,743 route kilometres, of which approximately 3,623 km has been electrified.

The remaining work forms part of the national effort to complete electrification across the broad-gauge railway system. Assam has achieved 97.9% electrification, while Goa has electrified 171 km of its 187-km network, leaving 16 km to be completed.

Together, the three states account for the 191 route kilometres still awaiting electrification.

Indian Railways advances its electrification drive

Indian Railways has been carrying out railway electrification on a mission-mode basis to improve operational efficiency and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

The country’s railway electrification programme began in 1925, when the first electric train operated between Bombay Victoria Terminus and Kurla Harbour in Maharashtra using a 1,500-volt direct-current system.

Since then, electrification has expanded across the national network, with most broad-gauge routes now operating under electric traction.

Southern Railway achieves full electrification

Southern Railway recently completed electrification across its entire 5,068-route-kilometre broad-gauge network.

The milestone was achieved after electrification work on the final 71-km Pattukkottai–Karaikkudi section was completed. The development marks another step towards the nationwide target of complete broad-gauge electrification.

Benefits of railway electrification

Electrification is expected to improve train operations and reduce reliance on diesel for traction. It can also help lower emissions associated with railway operations, depending on the electricity source, while supporting the Railways’ wider sustainability objectives.

Completing the remaining sections in Karnataka, Assam and Goa would bring Indian Railways closer to its goal of electrifying the entire broad-gauge network.

With 191 route kilometres left as of September 30, 2026, the remaining work represents the final stage of a nationwide infrastructure programme spanning more than a century.