The North Western Railway (NWR) is taking a significant leap toward modernizing its infrastructure by establishing its first-ever Mainline Electric Multiple Unit (MEMU) maintenance hub at Merta Road in Rajasthan. Located under the Jodhpur division, this ambitious project involves upgrading the existing Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) shed into a cutting-edge facility. With a total investment of ₹75.18 crore, the project is a cornerstone of NWR’s strategy to transition toward fully electrified passenger rail services.
Key highlights of the project include:
• Conversion of the existing DEMU shed into a modern MEMU maintenance center.
• Successful completion of electrification work connecting the station yard to the new shed as of August 2026.
• Construction of a 370-meter long pit line, a full-length cover shed, and three additional stabling lines.
• Implementation of advanced maintenance machinery and a dedicated training facility for loco pilots.
Enhancing Operational Efficiency
Currently, the Merta Road shed manages 46 DEMU rakes, with an average of 16 rakes undergoing maintenance weekly. These units are vital for connectivity across key sections including Bhilari, Palanpur, Hisar, Sri Ganganagar, Jaisalmer, Jaipur, Churu, Sikar, and Barmer. By shifting to MEMU operations, the railway aims to reduce diesel dependence significantly.
Jodhpur Divisional Railway Manager Anurag Tripathi noted that these upgrades are essential for improving the safety and quality of rail operations, leading to faster and more secure train movements across the division. The modernization is expected to streamline the upkeep process, reducing maintenance time and minimizing technical faults.
Future-Ready Rail Network
Senior Divisional Mechanical Engineer (Carriage & Wagon) Amit Swami emphasized that the facility will directly translate into a better passenger experience, characterized by increased train availability and improved punctuality. To support this growth, the North Western Railway has already requested 48 new MEMU rakes from the Railway Board. As the electrification of the network continues to expand, this new hub at Merta Road will serve as a vital nerve center for the region’s electric train fleet, ensuring that the NWR remains at the forefront of India’s railway modernization efforts.