Bhubaneswar: The East Coast Railway (ECoR) is advancing its traction power infrastructure by upgrading the electrification system in the Sambalpur Division. This initiative involves enhancing the current 1 X 25 KV Overhead Electrification (OHE) system to a more advanced 2 X 25 KV system in the Singapur Road–Titlagarh section, which includes the Titlagarh–Badmal and Titlagarh–Muribahal triple line segments of the division. The project spans 153 Route Kilometres (RKM) and 575 Track Kilometres (TKM), with an estimated investment of Rs 465.47 crore. It is part of a Railway Board initiative to modernize electric traction systems across Indian Railways, which has received an allocation of approximately Rs 12,000 crore nationwide.
The objective is to enhance power supply infrastructure and increase the capacity of electrified routes. The 2 X 25 KV traction system is a state-of-the-art configuration that transmits power at 50 KV, providing 25 KV to trains via autotransformers installed at regular intervals. This configuration ensures stable voltage, reduces power losses, and boosts the overall operational efficiency of electric locomotives. Upon completion, the upgraded system will enable the smooth operation of semi-high-speed passenger trains and heavily loaded freight trains, improving reliability, hauling capacity, and lowering maintenance needs. The Singapur Road–Titlagarh corridor is a crucial freight route under East Coast Railway, essential for transporting minerals, coal, and other vital goods.
The implementation of the 2 X 25 KV system will significantly enhance hauling power, improve voltage regulation, and support future increases in both passenger and freight traffic. ECoR representatives noted that the system will also encourage energy efficiency and environmental sustainability, aligning with Indian Railways’ commitment to providing greener and more efficient transport solutions.
