Indian Railways reached 99.6 per cent electrification of its broad gauge network as of 22 July 2026, making it the world’s second-most electrified large railway system after Switzerland, which retains full electrification. The achievement follows a phased network-wide programme that extended electric traction through overhead equipment and related supply systems across trunk routes, branch lines and freight corridors. The Union Railway Minister placed the electrification data in the Lok Sabha on 22 July 2026.

Between 2014 and 2026, Indian Railways electrified 48,072 route kilometres, while in the six decades prior to 2014 it had electrified 21,801 route kilometres, reflecting a sharp acceleration of the programme after 2014. All new line projects and multi-tracking schemes are now sanctioned and constructed with integrated electrification infrastructure to avoid subsequent retrofitting. The network expansion therefore prioritises continuous electric operation and improved operational efficiency.

Diesel consumption for train operations fell from 2,930 mn litres in 2015-16 to 1,080 mn litres in 2024-25, a reduction of about 1,850 mn litres that substantially reduced dependence on imported fuel for traction. The reduction supports wider energy transition goals and lowers operating costs and emissions intensity on rail corridors. Rail transport continues to exhibit significantly lower carbon intensity than road transport, with estimates indicating about 89 per cent less carbon dioxide per tonne-kilometre.

Indian Railways had commissioned over 1,260 megawatt (MW) of renewable energy capacity by June 2026, comprising about 1,161 MW of solar power and 103 MW of wind power, and further additions are planned to meet station and traction needs. Comparative electrification levels elsewhere include China at 82 per cent, Spain at 67 per cent, Japan at 64 per cent, France at 60 per cent and the United Kingdom at 39 per cent. The integrated approach is intended to reduce lifecycle emissions and improve reliability across the rail network.