Indian Railways has commissioned India’s first 2×25 kV traction system on the Khachrod–Nagda section in Madhya Pradesh, enabling higher train speeds and lower energy loss and part of a Mission Raftaar vision. It also completed yard remodelling with electronic interlocking at Malda Town station, aiming to provide safer operations. Both projects align with the IR’s goal of faster, efficient, and sustainable rail transport.
Introduction:
Indian Railways has achieved two significant milestones under Mission Raftaar, reinforcing its commitment to modernisation, efficiency, and sustainability. The commissioning of the first-of-its-kind 2×25 kV traction system on the Khachrod–Nagda double-line section in Madhya Pradesh, and the completion of yard remodelling with electronic interlocking at Malda Town station, mark a new era of operational excellence.
2×25 kV Traction System on Khachrod–Nagda Section:
The Khachrod–Nagda section of the Ratlam–Nagda rail line has become the first in India to implement the advanced 2×25 kV traction system, replacing conventional overhead equipment (OHE). This innovation allows:
- Higher train speeds
- Reduced transmission losses
- Greater efficiency in energy utilisation
As part of the Ratlam–Nagda Rail Line project, the initiative aims to decongest existing routes, boost freight and passenger traffic, and improve connectivity along critical economic corridors. It will enhance freight movement from Madhya Pradesh to major west coast ports such as Kandla, Mundra, Pipavav, Hazira, Dahej, JNPA, and the upcoming Vadhavan Port.
The system is expected to directly benefit Indore SEZ, Chhindwara SEZ, MMPL Indore, MMLP Bhopal, and industrial hubs such as Nagda Thermal Power Plant, along with chemical and viscose industries in Ratlam. Additionally, the project will support faster transport of agricultural produce, coal, petroleum, and containerised cargo.
Tourism is also poised to benefit, with improved access to destinations including Ujjain, Khajuraho, Kanha National Park, Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga, and Sanchi Stupa.
Yard Remodelling at Malda Town Station:
Indian Railways has also completed yard remodelling and electronic interlocking at Malda Town station, a major junction under the Eastern Railway zone. The project introduced:
- Full yard interlocking for safer operations
- 44 new points interlocked
- Integration with Route Relay Interlocking system
This modernisation ensures more reliable train movement on the busy Howrah–New Jalpaiguri line, reducing operational delays and enhancing safety for one of West Bengal’s busiest stations.
Station Redevelopment Progress:
Malda Town Railway Station is being redeveloped under the Amrit Station Scheme to deliver world-class facilities and modern infrastructure. Led by Eastern Railway’s General Manager, the project has upgraded passenger spaces, improved station aesthetics, expanded the circulating area, and introduced digital advancements such as video walls for real-time information.
Passenger-Centric Facilities:
The modernization drive includes revamped waiting halls, a premium Executive Lounge, pedestrian pathways, and segregated traffic circulation. Special facilities for Divyangjan like reserved parking, tactile guidance, and low-height counters are also planned. Food courts and kiosks will further enrich passenger convenience, ensuring Malda Town Station becomes a benchmark in commuter experience.
Mission Raftaar Vision:
Mission Raftaar seeks to double the average speed of freight trains and increase the average speed of Superfast, Mail, and Express trains by 25 kmph. These latest upgrades underscore the mission’s progress and its focus on making India’s railways faster, greener, and more future-ready.
Conclusion:
The commissioning of the 2×25 kV traction system and yard modernization at Malda Town showcase Indian Railways’ strategic step towards speed, efficiency, and sustainability under Mission Raftaar. With direct economic, industrial, and environmental benefits, these projects are a means to accelerate India’s journey towards a world-class, modern rail infrastructure.
Source: MoR | Images Credit: MoR
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