Rail Vikas Nigam Ltd (RVNL) has been awarded the lowest bid for a South Central Railway electrification project. This project involves enhancing the current 1×25kV OHE system to a 2×25kV system, including feeder and earthing works, over the Ongole–Gudur section, covering 154 route km (RKM) or 462 track km (TKM) within the Vijayawada Division Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) emerging as the lowest bidder for the 2×25kV overhead equipment upgradation project on South Central Railway marks another significant milestone in India’s ongoing railway modernisation journey. As Indian Railways continues to transform itself into a high-capacity, energy-efficient and freight-friendly.
Higher Operational Efficiency
Network, advanced electrification systems are becoming the backbone of this transition. The 2×25kV traction system, already deployed on major freight and high-density corridors, is now being extended to conventional routes to unlock higher operational efficiency and long-term sustainability RVNL, a key public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Railways, has consistently played a central role in executing complex railway infrastructure projects across the country. From new line construction and doubling projects to electrification and metro rail works, the company has built a strong execution track record. With this latest development, RVNL further strengthens.
Its position in the railway electrification segment, particularly in technologically advanced traction systems that support higher axle loads and faster train operations. More on similar developments can be explored through our internal coverage on railway electrification projects The South Central Railway zone is strategically important for both passenger and freight movement, connecting major industrial hubs, ports and mineral-rich regions. With increasing demand for rail transport, especially freight, existing electrification systems face limitations in handling higher power requirements. The 2×25kV OHE system addresses this challenge by significantly reducing.
Conventional 25kV System
Transmission losses and maintaining stable voltage levels over longer distances. This makes it ideal for routes witnessing high traffic density and heavy freight operations, aligning well with Indian Railways’ long-term growth plans Technically, the 2×25kV system differs from the conventional 25kV system by using an auto-transformer arrangement that effectively delivers 50kV between the feeder and contact wire. This configuration allows trains to draw higher power without overloading the system, resulting in improved acceleration, higher speeds and the ability to haul longer and heavier trains. For South Central Railway, this translates into enhanced line capacity.
Reduced congestion and better punctuality, especially on busy trunk routes RVNL’s role in this project will likely involve comprehensive upgradation of existing overhead equipment, installation of auto-transformers, feeder lines and associated traction infrastructure, along with integration into the existing power supply network. Such projects demand precise planning and execution, as they are often carried out on live railway sections with minimal disruption to train services. RVNL’s experience in handling similar assignments across India positions it well to meet these operational challenges From a broader infrastructure perspective, this project supports Indian Railways.
Renewable Energy Sourcing
Mission to become a net-zero carbon emitter by 2030. Electrification, especially using efficient systems like 2×25kV, reduces dependence on fossil fuels and lowers overall energy consumption per train kilometre. As renewable energy sourcing increases for traction power, the environmental benefits of such projects will further multiply. Readers interested in sustainability-linked rail initiatives can also explore our internal analysis on Indian railway infrastructure transformation Financially, securing the lowest bidder position enhances RVNL’s order book and revenue visibility, reinforcing investor confidence in the PSU. Over the years, RVNL has steadily expanded.
Its project portfolio, not just within Indian Railways but also in metro rail, overseas consultancy and turnkey infrastructure works. The South Central Railway OHE upgradation adds another high-value, technology-intensive project to its pipeline, supporting long-term growth (India) prospectsFor South Central Railway, the upgradation aligns with the zone’s focus on improving freight throughput and passenger experience. Higher power availability allows for the introduction of more powerful electric locomotives, reduction in section running times and better handling of peak traffic demands. This is particularly relevant for routes serving ports and industrial corridors, where freight volumes are expected to.
Future Ready Infrastructure Planning
Rise sharply in the coming years under initiatives such as Dedicated Freight Corridors and industrial cluster development At a national level, projects like this demonstrate Indian Railways’ shift from incremental upgrades to future-ready infrastructure planning. Rather than merely expanding capacity through new lines, the focus is increasingly on technology-driven enhancements that maximise output from existing assets. The adoption of 2×25kV electrification on conventional routes reflects this strategic mindset and sets the stage for faster, more reliable rail services across regions External insights into Indian Railways’ electrification roadmap can be accessed.
Through official sources such as the Indian Railways portal and zone-specific updates from South Central Railway, while RVNL’s project disclosures are available on its official website. These sources provide valuable context on how such projects fit into the larger national rail (India) modernisation programme RVNL emerging as the lowest bidder for the 2×25kV OHE upgradation on South Central Railway is more than just a contract win. It represents a convergence of advanced technology, strategic infrastructure planning and execution capability. As Indian Railways continues its journey toward higher efficiency, sustainability and global competitiveness, projects like.
Q1. What project has RVNL emerged lowest bidder for?
RVNL is the lowest bidder for the 2×25kV OHE upgradation project on South Central Railway.
Q2. What is the benefit of 2×25kV electrification?
It enables higher speeds, heavier freight loads and better energy efficiency.
Q3. Which zone is covered under this project?
The project falls under South Central Railway.
Q4. Why is this project important for Indian Railways?
It supports capacity expansion and future-ready rail operations.
Q5. Who is executing the project?
Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), a PSU under the Ministry of Railways.
