The Indian Railways has approved two projects to enhance the current 1×25 kV electric traction system to a modern 2×25 kV electric traction system, with an investment of Rs 447.58 crore. These projects cover the Bengaluru-Tumkur section of the South Western Railway and the Mahbubnagar-Secunderabad-Medchal section of the South Central Railway. The Bengaluru-Tumkur project, costing Rs 162.57 crore, will convert the existing system over a 120 km stretch on Karnataka’s busy rail corridor.
The 2×25 kV traction system adoption aims to improve power supply for train operations, allowing the section to manage higher traffic efficiently. It will enable the operation of heavier freight trains and longer passenger services, enhancing the overall reliability of the electric traction infrastructure. This upgrade will help ease congestion on a vital rail route serving Bengaluru and neighboring districts, facilitating smoother movement of passengers and freight in Karnataka and southern India.
The Mahbubnagar-Secunderabad-Medchal section of the South Central Railway will undergo a modernization to a 2×25 kV electric traction system, costing Rs 285.01 crore. This initiative is part of Indian Railways’ strategy to enhance capacity on busy rail routes nationwide. The new system will provide a more stable and efficient power supply for train operations, ensuring smoother, safer, and more reliable rail services.
The Mahbubnagar-Secunderabad-Medchal section is a significant part of the High-Density Network (HDN) routes in the country. Situated on a crucial rail corridor, it handles substantial passenger and freight traffic. Upon completion, this project will enhance train operations, making freight movement more efficient and boosting the speed and capacity of goods transportation. Additionally, it is expected to bolster trade, industry, and economic activities in the region.
