The year 2025 has been etched as a historic chapter for Western Railway (WR), showcasing monumental progress across infrastructure, sustainability, safety, and passenger services. The zone not only achieved ambitious national targets but also set new benchmarks for operational excellence within the Indian Railways network.
A Green Leap: Complete Electrification and Sustainable Operations
A cornerstone of Western Railway's 2025 success was the complete electrification of its entire Broad Gauge network. This massive undertaking marks a decisive shift towards eco-friendly and energy-efficient train operations. According to WR chief spokesperson Vineet Abhishek, this milestone is a direct contribution to India's vision for a greener future and firmly establishes Western Railway as a pioneer in sustainable transportation.
Complementing this green initiative was a significant technological upgrade: the commissioning of India's first 2×25 kV traction system on the Khachrod–Nagda section. This advanced system allows for higher speeds and substantially improved energy efficiency, powering the next generation of rail travel.
Unmatched Punctuality and a Digital Revolution
Passengers on Western Railway experienced remarkable reliability, with the zone maintaining an exceptional 97% punctuality rate for its Mail and Express services. This feat, accomplished despite various operational challenges, highlights the zone's superior planning and real-time monitoring capabilities.
Simultaneously, WR accelerated its digital transformation by achieving 100% digital ticket checking. This was made possible through the deployment of 2,270 Hand-Held Terminals (HHTs) to its staff. Furthermore, the zone's commitment to passenger feedback was proven as it retained the number one position in Rail Madad grievance redressal for the fifth consecutive year.
Enhanced Safety, Infrastructure, and Community Initiatives
Safety remained a paramount focus. Western Railway made substantial infrastructural investments by constructing 138 Road Over Bridges and Under Bridges and eliminating 114 manned level crossings. To prevent trespassing, 660 km of W-beam fencing was installed, significantly boosting safety for both passengers and the public.
The human element of safety was glorified through the heroic actions of the Western Railway RPF. Their personnel saved 37 lives under Operation Jeevan Raksha and rescued 769 runaway or missing children under Operation Nanhe Farishtey.
On the infrastructure front, the year saw the completion of 234 km of new lines, doubling, and gauge conversion projects, enhancing network capacity. A landmark moment was the inauguration by Prime Minister Narendra Modi of the new Loco Manufacturing Shop at Dahod, a Rs 21,405 crore project. This state-of-the-art facility will manufacture 9000 HP electric freight locomotives, boosting India's freight capability and aligning with the Make in India initiative.
Western Railway also celebrated its cultural legacy with events like the Bandra Station Mahotsav, which highlighted the architectural heritage of the iconic suburban station, fostering greater public engagement and pride.
In summary, Western Railway's 2025 was a year of holistic growth, seamlessly blending technological advancement with unwavering commitment to passenger safety, service excellence, and environmental stewardship, thereby charting a confident course for the future of Indian railways.
