Indian Railways Approves ₹163 Crore Electric Traction Upgradation for Parbhani-Mudkhed Section in Nanded Division of South Central Railway

Why in news

Indian Railways has sanctioned the upgradation of the electric traction system on the Parbhani-Mudkhed double line section in Nanded Division of South Central Railway, at a cost of ₹163 crore.

Exam relevance

GS3 · Economy, Science & Technology, Internal Security · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. The project involves upgrading the electric traction system on the Parbhani-Mudkhed double line section in Nanded Division of South Central Railway.
2. The sanctioned cost for the project is ₹163 crore.
3. The upgrade will convert the existing 1x25 kV electric traction system to a 2x25 kV system.
4. The project covers a stretch of 164 Track Kilometres and includes associated power supply installation works.
5. The Parbhani-Mudkhed section is part of the Highly Utilised Network (HUN) Route-9, connecting Ajmer-Indore-Khandwa-Akola-Purna-Mudkhed-Secunderabad-Mahbubnagar-Dhone.
6. The upgraded system aims to strengthen power supply for train operations, handle higher freight volumes, and support Vande Bharat Express trains.
7. It contributes to Indian Railways' goal of achieving 3,000 Million Tonnes of freight loading by 2029-30.

Prelims pointers

• The Parbhani-Mudkhed section is located in the Nanded Division of South Central Railway.
• The traction system is being upgraded from 1x25 kV to 2x25 kV.
• The project covers 164 Track Kilometres.
• The section is part of Highly Utilised Network (HUN) Route-9.
• The upgrade aims to support higher freight volumes and Vande Bharat Express trains.

Mains practice question

Analyze the significance of modernizing railway electric traction systems in achieving India's economic and connectivity goals. Discuss the challenges involved in such infrastructure upgrades.

Static linkage

This project is part of Indian Railways' broader efforts towards modernizing its electrical infrastructure and enhancing network capacity across the country. It aligns with the national focus on improving logistics efficiency, promoting faster passenger services like Vande Bharat trains, and achieving ambitious freight loading targets to support economic growth.

Significance

The upgradation of the electric traction system is crucial for enhancing the operational efficiency and capacity of Indian Railways. It will facilitate the movement of higher freight volumes, which is vital for economic activity and reducing logistics costs. Furthermore, it supports the expansion of modern passenger services like the Vande Bharat Express, improving connectivity and travel experience. By strengthening the power supply, the project contributes to the overall reliability and speed of train operations, aligning with the national goal of infrastructure development and modernization.