Has Tripura Electricity Corp taken a major step towards electric train services?
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Synopsis
Tripura is on the brink of a transportation revolution with the launch of electric train services. The recent commissioning of a key transmission line signals a shift from diesel to electric locomotives, promising to enhance travel efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Excitement is building among residents, highlighting the potential for tourism and trade growth.
Key Takeaways
- The commissioning of a 132 KV transmission line is a pivotal development for electric train services in Tripura.
- Electric trains are expected to replace diesel locomotives, reducing costs and environmental impact.
- The electrification project is set to enhance travel efficiency across the state.
- Residents are optimistic about the benefits of improved transportation and tourism opportunities.
- Trial runs for electric trains have already been conducted, signaling progress towards full operations.
Agartala, Aug 13 (NationPress) The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) is diligently working towards the launch of the much-awaited electric locomotive-powered trains from Tripura, as confirmed by a railway representative on Wednesday.
An official from the Tripura State Electricity Corporation Limited (TSECL) announced that a newly constructed 132 KV transmission line was inaugurated on Wednesday, establishing a connection between the Banduar 132 KV substation and the Udaipur Railway Traction Substation in southern Tripura's Gomati district.
“This advancement signifies that preparations are now fully in place for the operation of electric trains from Matabari Railway Station,” stated the TSECL official. Currently, train services in Tripura rely on diesel locomotives, which are not only expensive but also detrimental to the environment.
“The implementation of electric train services is anticipated to significantly cut operational expenses and reduce pollution. The inauguration on Wednesday represents a pivotal step by TSECL towards the electrification of the state’s railway system,” the official added.
Officials from both the Railways and TSECL indicated that the electricity supply to the Teliamura Railway Traction Substation in Khowai district will commence soon.
Eventually, every railway station in the state will be integrated into the electrification network, according to the TSECL official, who mentioned that once the entire railway route is electrified, electric train operations will be officially initiated in Tripura.
At the inauguration, Nandita Das, Additional General Manager of TSECL’s Gomati district, emphasized that the project will bring a transformative shift to the state’s transport system, making passenger travel quicker, more affordable, and environmentally conscious.
The event was attended by Udaipur Deputy General Manager Ananda Sarkar, senior TSECL officials, Northeast Frontier Railway representatives, and Udaipur station authorities.
Residents expressed enthusiasm over this development, noting that electric train services would enhance travel convenience and comfort in Tripura, while also opening up new avenues for tourism and trade in the area, as per the TSECL official.
An NFR official mentioned that trial runs of passenger trains equipped with electric locomotives were successfully conducted earlier between Agartala railway station and Arunachal Junction railway station in southern Assam’s Cachar district.
“Trial runs are mandatory before the regular operation of electric passenger trains. Additional trials of trains powered by electric locomotives are expected to take place before the official launch of electric trains from Tripura,” the official stated.
Prior to the passenger train trials, the inaugural goods train trial run with an electric locomotive was successfully conducted on February 6 between Badarpur station in southern Assam and Jirania station in Tripura, located 15 km north of Agartala railway station.
As the infrastructure for electric railway lines nears completion, the iconic Vande Bharat Express trains are set to extend their route to Assam’s Silchar and Agartala within the upcoming months, as reported by the NFR official.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Assam’s first Vande Bharat Express on May 29, 2023, connecting Guwahati with New Jalpaiguri in West Bengal.
Tripura is now well-linked with cities such as Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Firozpur, and Patna through several express trains, yet passenger services have predominantly relied on diesel engines.
A Rs 46 crore electrification project was initiated in 2022 to link Tripura with the national railway grid via electric trains.
Point of View
The electrification of railway services in Tripura represents a significant advancement in sustainable transportation. This initiative not only aligns with the broader goals of reducing carbon emissions but also enhances the state's connectivity, economic viability, and overall accessibility. As electrification progresses, it is crucial that the focus remains on creating an inclusive transport system that benefits all residents.
NationPress
05/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the new 132 KV transmission line?
The new 132 KV transmission line marks a critical milestone, enabling the operation of electric trains from Tripura, which will reduce operational costs and lower environmental pollution.
When will electric train services commence in Tripura?
Electric train services are expected to begin once the entire railway route is electrified, with preparations already underway.
How will the shift to electric trains impact travel in Tripura?
The transition to electric trains is set to enhance travel speed, affordability, and environmental sustainability, benefiting both residents and visitors.
