Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) has been awarded a significant order worth Rs. 143.38 crore by Southern Railway for upgrading the electric traction system from 1×25 kV to 2×25 kV in the key sections of Salem division. The electrification work will be done in Salem Junction (SA) – Podanur Junction (PTJ) and Irugur (IGU) – Coimbatore Junction (CBE) – Podanur Junction (PTJ) sections. The project aims to accelerate freight handling capacity to meet a 3000 MT loading target.
Introduction:
Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), a prominent public sector enterprise under the Ministry of Railways, has secured a significant contract from Southern Railway for electrification enhancement works aimed at reinforcing the freight infrastructure across Tamil Nadu.
Project Overview:
The awarded contract involves upgradation of the electric traction system from the current 1×25 kV to a more robust 2×25 kV system, covering major sections of the Salem division. This critical upgrade is aligned with Indian Railway’s goal to support higher freight movement across important industrial regions.
The sections covered under this project include–
- Salem Junction (SA) – Podanur Junction (PTJ)
- Irugur (IGU) – Coimbatore Junction (CBE) – Podanur Junction (PTJ)
These routes are strategically crucial for freight logistics in southern India, especially for moving heavy goods across key industrial hubs.
Scope and Technical Details:
- Scope of Work: The upgradation work includes replacing the existing 1×25 kV traction system with a 2×25 kV system, which allows for higher power transmission, accelerated voltage regulation, and the ability to handle longer and heavier freight trains.
- Contract Value: Rs. 143,37,87,127.90
- Contract Period: 24 months
- Tender Number: CONV-OHE-2X25-KV-SR01
- Target: Achieving a freight loading capacity of 3000 Metric Tonnes (MT)
Strategic Importance:
The decision to upgrade to a 2×25 kV traction system stems from the need to increase the carrying capacity of electric locomotives, especially for high-density freight routes. The system allows better operational efficiency and improved reliability by minimising electrical losses and accelerating the power availability over longer distances.
This project is a part of Indian Railway’s broader electrification and modernization mission to transition to greener, faster, and more efficient rail operations. It also promotes the national goal of achieving 100% electrification of broad-gauge routes.
Benefits of the Project:
- Improved freight carrying capacity to meet rising industrial demand
- Better efficiency in train operations through higher voltage traction
- Lesser transmission losses and improved power stability
- Support for Indian Railway’s goal of energy-efficient and sustainable operations
Conclusion:
RVNL’s traction system upgradation contract marks a significant step toward Indian Railway’s electrification goals. By accelerating infrastructure on crucial routes in Tamil Nadu, the project is expected to increase freight capacity, support industrial growth, and advance the mission of sustainable and high-capacity railway operations in the southern region.
Source: RVNL – Press Release | Image Credit (representational): DFCCIL
