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Railways approves major upgrade for Telangana traction lines Breakthrough

Soniya Gupta

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Railways

The Ministry of Railways has approved the upgrade of the electric traction system in two key railway sections: Medchal–Mudkhed (225 km) and Mahbubnagar–Dhone (184 km). The projects, costing Rs 1.93 billion and Rs 1.23 billion respectively, will enhance the electric traction capacity from 1X25 KV to 2X25 KV. This includes modifications to circuit breakers and switching stations, as well as the installation of additional conductors. These routes are important links between Northern and Southern India through Hyderabad, and the upgrade aims to reduce voltage drops The Indian Railways has taken another transformative step toward achieving a fully.

Electrified, efficient, and eco-friendly rail network (Indian Railways) with the approval of a major upgrade for traction lines in Telangana. This landmark decision represents a continuation of the government’s commitment to modernization under the National Rail Plan 2030, designed to make India’s railway system faster, cleaner, and more sustainable. The traction line enhancement in Telangana will not only improve the speed and reliability of trains but also strengthen the region’s role as a key node in India’s southern rail corridor The project will involve upgrading existing traction infrastructure and installing new 25 kV AC overhead equipment, ensuring seamless power.

Delivery across passenger and freight corridors. With Telangana being an industrially active state home to hubs like Hyderabad, Kazipet, and Warangal this upgrade will enable better connectivity to ports such as Visakhapatnam and Chennai, improving the movement of goods and reducing logistic delays. The modernization also ties in with the government’s broader Mission 100% Electrification, aimed at eliminating diesel traction and transitioning to electric-powered networks across the country. (Internal link: Indian Railways Electrification Mission)

Modernizing Telangana’s Rail Network for the Future

The traction line upgrade is not just an infrastructure enhancement it is a strategic investment in energy efficiency and long-term sustainability. Telangana’s rail routes, especially the Secunderabad Kazipet Balharshah and Hyderabad–Nizamabad sections, are among the busiest in the South Central Railway zone. These corridors currently handle thousands of passengers and tons of freight daily, making efficient power transmission vital for operational stability. The upgraded system will reduce transmission losses, enhance reliability, and ensure that trains operate with minimal energy fluctuation The South Central Railway (SCR) will oversee.

Implementation, ensuring that the latest technology such as AI-enabled energy management systems, smart traction control, and predictive maintenance tools is integrated into the new network. This will allow real-time monitoring of traction lines, immediate response to faults, and optimization of voltage for maximum efficiency. The result will be not just faster trains but also lower maintenance costs and enhanced safety standards. Upgrading Telangana’s traction lines will also provide a strong economic boost to the region. The enhanced infrastructure will enable higher freight capacity, benefiting industries such as cement, steel, IT hardware, and agriculture that depend.

On the state’s efficient transport system. With better connectivity to key industrial areas and logistics parks, the upgrade will help Telangana emerge as a major logistics hub in South India Moreover, improved traction systems will support faster passenger services, reducing travel time between cities like Hyderabad, Warangal, and Vijayawada. The improved network will also facilitate the introduction of semi-high-speed trains, which could become operational in the near future under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme and Gati Shakti Mission The Indian Railways’ commitment to environmental sustainability is evident in this project. By transitioning fully to.

Electric traction, the Telangana upgrade will eliminate the use of diesel engines in these sections, thereby reducing carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. The government estimates that full electrification across India’s railway network could save over ₹14,000 crore annually in fuel costs while cutting down nearly 3.4 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions every year This project supports India’s Net Zero 2070 commitment and the National Energy Transition Framework outlined by NITI Aayog, focusing on green mobility and renewable energy integration. The upgraded traction lines will be powered by renewable sources, including solar and wind energy.

Technical and Operational Advancements

Contributing directly to the Indian Railways’ goal of becoming the world’s largest green railway system The upgrade will introduce several cutting-edge technologies, including modern substations, digital control panels, and energy-efficient transformers. These systems will help maintain stable power supply even under peak load conditions, reducing outages and voltage drops. Additionally, the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system will be implemented to ensure centralized control over power distribution and traction performance By upgrading the traction system, Indian Railways is also laying the foundation for future innovations.

Like Automatic Train Operation (ATO) and Driver Assistance Systems, which rely on consistent and efficient power delivery. This modernization will also enhance interoperability between different zones, ensuring smoother coordination for long-distance express and freight trains The Ministry of Railways has directed that work commence immediately, with the project slated for completion by mid-2026. Funding will come from the Railway Electrification and Modernization Fund (REMF), with additional support from the Telangana State Government. The budget allocation covers the replacement of old overhead lines, construction of new.

Substations, and deployment of AI-based monitoring systems The Indian Railways will coordinate closely with the Central Organization for Railway Electrification (CORE) to ensure that all project components meet global standards for reliability and safety. Once completed, Telangana will join the list of Indian states that have achieved 100% railway electrification, marking a significant step toward India’s broader infrastructure modernization plan For passengers, the traction line upgrade will bring smoother, faster, and quieter journeys. Electric trains accelerate and decelerate more efficiently than diesel-powered ones, reducing travel time and improving overall ride comfort.

Contribution to India’s Railway Vision 2047

Additionally, the reduction in maintenance needs will lead to fewer service disruptions and more punctual train operations For freight operators, the new system will allow for heavier trains with improved hauling capacity and reduced transit times. The upgrade is particularly significant for goods movement from Telangana’s industrial regions to eastern and southern ports, boosting export potential and trade competitiveness This project is part of India’s long-term Railway Vision 2047, which envisions a world-class, fully electrified, digitally integrated network. The modernization of Telangana’s traction lines represents a scalable model for other states, showcasing.

How technology, sustainability, and efficiency can converge to create a smarter railway ecosystem By combining advanced technology with sustainable practices, Indian Railways is building the foundation for an energy-independent transport network, crucial for India’s economic and environmental goals. The Telangana traction upgrade is not just an infrastructural reform it is a symbol of progress, reinforcing India’s status as a global leader in sustainable railway innovation The approval of the Telangana traction line upgrade marks a historic milestone in India’s journey toward modern and sustainable rail infrastructure. With its focus on energy efficiency.

Environmental responsibility, and technological advancement, the project embodies the essence of the Indian Railways’ modernization vision. Once completed, it will (Solar Project) enhance Telangana’s connectivity, strengthen freight and passenger services, and contribute significantly to India’s mission of building a green, efficient, and future-ready railway network.

Q1. What is the purpose of the Telangana traction line upgrade?
The goal is to modernize the rail network, improve energy efficiency, and enhance train speed and safety.

Q2. Which areas will benefit from this upgrade?
Key regions include Secunderabad, Kazipet, Warangal, and Nizamabad, improving both passenger and freight operations.

Q3. When will the project be completed?
The upgrade is expected to be completed by mid-2026 under the supervision of South Central Railway.

Q4. How will this impact the environment?
By shifting from diesel to electric traction, it will significantly reduce carbon emissions and promote green transport.

Q5. How does this align with India’s national rail plan?
It supports the National Rail Plan 2030 and Mission 100% Electrification, aiming for a fully electrified and sustainable railway system.