Indian Railways has completed the setup of a 132 KV traction substation at New Haflong as part of the Lumding-Badarpur rail electrification project. This work was carried out under the consultancy of RITES to improve rail connectivity in Northeast India. The project aims to modernize train operations in the hilly sections of the region.
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What is the current status of the project?
The electrification work on the 172 km Lumding-Badarpur hilly section was 85% complete by May 2024. NFR Chief Public Relations Officer Kapil Kishore Sharma confirmed that the entire work will be finished before Durga Puja 2026. Passenger trains are expected to start running on electric traction within the next two months.
Who are the key agencies involved and what is the cost?
The project is being overseen by Indian Railways and managed by Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR). RITES is acting as the consultant and executing the project on a turnkey basis. The budget for this project was revised from an initial estimate of ₹288.44 crore to ₹531.77 crore (excluding GST) in late 2024.
How will this impact travel in the Northeast?
The shift to electric traction will improve operational efficiency and make train services more reliable. Officials mentioned that this development will pave the way for the Vande Bharat Express in the region, connecting the Barak Valley and surrounding areas more effectively to the rest of the country.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When will electric trains start running on the Lumding-Badarpur section?
The electrification work is expected to be completed before Durga Puja 2026, with passenger train operations on electric traction likely to start within the next two months.
What is the role of RITES in this project?
RITES is serving as the consultant and is executing the project on a turnkey basis, including Project Management Consultancy (PMC).