Indian Railways has achieved yet another milestone in its mission to become the world’s largest Green Railway. The entire broad gauge network of Uttarakhand, covering 347 route kilometres, is now 100% electrified. This achievement is a significant step towards Indian Railways’ goal of becoming a “net zero carbon emitter” before 2030.
Benefits of Electrification
The electrification of Uttarakhand’s railway network will result in many benefits, including reduced line haul costs, heavier haulage capacity, increased sectional capacity, and reduced operating and maintenance costs for electric locomotives. The electrified railway system will also provide an energy-efficient and eco-friendly mode of transportation with reduced dependence on imported crude oil, resulting in savings of foreign exchange.
Tourism and Connectivity
Uttarakhand is a state with many important religious and tourist destinations. The electrified railway system will improve connectivity to these places and provide a significant boost to the state’s tourism industry. Some of the major railway stations in Uttarakhand are Dehradun, Haridwar, Roorkee, Rishikesh, Kathgodam, and Tanakpur. These stations are important gateways to popular tourist destinations such as Badrinath, Kedarnath, Yamunotri, Gangotri, Hemkund Sahib, Mussoorie, Nainital, Jim Corbett, and Haridwar.
Prestigious Trains
Uttarakhand is home to many prestigious trains, including the Nanda Devi, Haridwar Express, Mussoorie Express, Utkal Express, Kumaon Express, Doon Express, and Shatabdi Express. These trains provide convenient connectivity to various parts of the state and other major cities in India.
New Line Work
Rishikesh to Karnprayag is a new railway line under construction, which will be another landmark achievement of Indian Railways. This new line will bring the Char Dham pilgrimage route on Indian Railways’ circuit. The route is sanctioned along with electrification, in sync with Railways’ policy of 100% electrified network.
The electrification of Uttarakhand’s railway network is a significant milestone for Indian Railways. It will provide many benefits, including reduced costs, increased capacity, and improved connectivity to important tourist destinations. Indian Railways is committed to becoming the world’s largest Green Railway, and this achievement is a significant step towards achieving that goal.
