Indian Railways has officially sanctioned a major infrastructure project aimed at modernizing the electric traction system on the Parbhani-Mudkhed double-line section. Announced on July 28, 2026, the project is set to enhance the efficiency and capacity of this vital rail corridor through a significant investment of **₹163 crore**. This initiative marks a strategic move by the Ministry of Railways to future-proof the network for increased traffic demands.
Key highlights of the infrastructure upgrade include:
- Investment: A total of ₹163 crore sanctioned for system modernization.
- Scope: Conversion of the existing 1×25 kV electric traction system to a modern 2×25 kV system.
- Coverage: The upgrade spans 164 track kilometers across the Nanded Division of South Central Railway.
- Objective: To facilitate heavier freight loads and support the operation of high-speed trains like the Vande Bharat Express.
Boosting Capacity on Strategic Routes
The Parbhani-Mudkhed section is a critical component of the Highly Utilised Network (HUN) Route-9, which serves as a vital link connecting major railway hubs including Ajmer, Indore, Secunderabad, and Dhone. By transitioning to the **2×25 kV traction system**, the railway aims to provide superior power transmission over longer distances. This technical improvement is essential for sustaining heavier train loads and managing the increasing traffic density on this high-priority corridor.
Supporting Long-Term Freight and Passenger Goals
This modernization effort aligns with the broader vision of Indian Railways to achieve a target of **3,000 million tonnes of freight loading by the year 2029-30**. Beyond freight logistics, the upgraded power infrastructure will directly benefit passenger services. With a more robust electrical supply, the section will be fully equipped to handle modern, energy-intensive rolling stock, including the increasingly popular Vande Bharat Express trains.
Implementing this project under the South Central Railway’s Nanded Division demonstrates the national transporter’s ongoing commitment to upgrading its electrical infrastructure. As Indian Railways continues to modernize its aging systems, projects like these are foundational to improving operational efficiency and ensuring a faster, more reliable travel experience for passengers across the country.