In 2025, India celebrates a monumental milestone—100 years of electrification on Indian Railways. This transformation, initiated on February 3, 1925, when the first electric train ran between Victoria Terminus (now Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus) and Kurla, marked the shift from steam to electric traction. It revolutionized the railway system, enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and economic growth.

Southern Railway, a key player in this journey, commemorates this achievement with several events. The first electrified section in the zone, between Madras Beach and Tambaram, was commissioned in 1931, using a 1.5 kV DC system. Today, Southern Railway boasts 96% electrification of its 5,093 route kilometers, exemplifying Indian Railways' Mission 100% electrification.

To honor this century-long achievement, Southern Railway organized an exhibition at Rail House, Nungambakkam, inaugurated on February 1, 2025, by Shri R. N. Singh, General Manager of Southern Railway. The exhibition, open until February 3, highlights the evolution of electric traction with archival photographs, vintage equipment, and modern gadgets, while focusing on innovations like electric loco development, overhead equipment, and renewable energy integration.

On February 3, 2025, Southern Railway held a Walkathon, which will be followed by a seminar on February 5, discussing advancements in electric traction and green energy integration. Throughout the month, various activities, including rallies, thematic displays, and competitions, will engage the public, employees, and rail users, spreading awareness of this historic event. This month-long celebration underscores the role of electric traction in shaping India's sustainable transportation future.

Source/SR