India Among The World’s Largest Electrified Railway Networks

Indian Railways has electrified 99.6% of its broad-gauge network, making it the second most electrified large railway system in the world after Switzerland. The update was shared by PIB Delhi on 22 July 2026, highlighting a decade-long electrification push led by Indian Railways under the Ministry of Railways. Between 2014 and 2026, the network added 48,072 route-kilometers of electrification, compared to just 21,801 km built in the roughly 60 years before 2014.

How Does India Compare Globally in Railway Electrification?

Unlike most countries that electrify only high-traffic corridors, India has pursued electrification across its entire broad gauge network, per the International Union of Railways' June 2025 report.

1. Switzerland - 100%
2. India - 99.6%
3. China - 82%
4. Spain - 67%
5. Japan - 64%
6. France - 60%
7. United Kingdom - 39%

How Much Diesel and Carbon Emissions Has Electrification Saved?

Diesel used for traction dropped from 293 crore liters in 2015-16 to 108 crore liters in 2024-25, a fall of 185 crore liters, saving valuable foreign exchange otherwise spent on fuel imports. Rail transport also emits roughly 89% less CO₂ per tonne-km than road transport, based on NITI Aayog's 2021 "Fast Tracking Freight in India" report.

How Is Indian Railways Using Renewable Energy for Traction?

As of June 2026, Indian Railways has commissioned about 1,161 MW of solar power and 103 MW of wind power capacity, supporting its shift toward low-carbon, renewable-powered train operations alongside near-total electrification.