Railway Electrification Nears Completion as Infrastructure Expansion Accelerates: Economic Survey 2026 Highlights Major Milestones

India’s railway modernisation drive has reached a decisive milestone, with the Economic Survey 2026 confirming that 99.1% of the broad‑gauge network was electrified by October 2025, marking one of the fastest infrastructure transitions undertaken by the national transporter. The survey, tabled ahead of the Union Budget, underscores sustained growth in railway infrastructure, capacity expansion, and operational efficiency across the network.

Electrification Push Nears 100% Completion

According to the survey, the Indian Railways has electrified nearly its entire broad‑gauge route system, leaving only a few operationally sensitive or geographically challenging stretches pending. Officials noted that the final phase of electrification is expected to conclude in early 2026, positioning India among the world’s largest fully electrified rail networks.

The report attributes this rapid progress to coordinated project execution, streamlined tendering processes, and increased capital expenditure over the past five years. Electrification has been a central pillar of the government’s strategy to reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels, cut operational costs, and lower carbon emissions.

Infrastructure Growth Continues Across Multiple Fronts

Beyond electrification, the Economic Survey highlights a broad spectrum of infrastructure improvements:

• Track Expansion: Doubling, tripling, and quadrupling projects have accelerated to ease congestion on high‑density routes.
• Station Redevelopment: Modernisation of major stations under the Amrit Bharat and redevelopment schemes has progressed steadily, with several hubs nearing completion.
• Freight Corridor Progress: The Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFCs) continue to enhance freight movement efficiency, with new sections commissioned in 2025.
• Rolling Stock Modernisation: Introduction of new‑generation Vande Bharat trains and upgraded locomotives has improved passenger comfort and operational reliability.

Operational Efficiency and Sustainability Gains

The survey notes that electrification has already begun delivering measurable benefits:

• Reduced fuel expenditure, with diesel consumption dropping sharply across zones.
• Lower greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with India’s climate commitments.
• Improved average speeds for both passenger and freight trains due to seamless electric traction.
• Enhanced reliability, as electric locomotives require less maintenance compared to diesel counterparts.

Railway officials emphasise that the shift to electric traction will generate long‑term savings and support the network’s transition toward high‑speed and semi‑high‑speed operations.

Capital Investment Remains Strong

The Economic Survey 2026 reports continued high levels of capital expenditure in the railway sector, reflecting the government’s focus on infrastructure‑led economic growth. Investments have been channelled into:

• Network expansion
• Safety upgrades, including Kavach deployment
• Bridge and tunnel strengthening
• Logistics parks and multimodal connectivity projects

These initiatives are expected to boost freight share, improve passenger experience, and support India’s broader economic ambitions.

Looking Ahead

With electrification nearly complete and infrastructure upgrades progressing at pace, the Indian Railways is poised for a transformative decade. The survey concludes that sustained investment, technological adoption, and operational reforms will be essential to meeting rising demand and positioning the rail network as a backbone of India’s economic growth.