Northeast Frontier Railway conducts inspection for electrification works

DIAMPUR — The Principal Chief Electrical Engineer (PCEE) of Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) conducted the statutory inspection for commissioning of the railway electrification works in the Araria and Araria Court to Bibiganj section, covering 67.186 Route Kilometres (RKM) and 82.698 Track Kilometres (TKM) under the Katihar Division on October 30.

The inspection was completed successfully, marking a key step toward operationalising electric train services in the section, the NFR stated in an update.

During the inspection, all safety parameters and technical standards were meticulously verified, including the performance of the Over Head Equipment (OHE) sectioning, bonding and earthing systems.

The OHE was successfully energised at 25 kVand current collection trials were conducted smoothly at the maximum sectional speed of 100 kmph. The successful trials confirmed the system’s full readiness for the introduction of electric train operations in the section.

This achievement follows the earlier completion of the Thakurganj – Bibiganj electrification work in June 2025, covering 41.43 Route Kilometres (RKM) and 48.13 Track Kilometres (TKM) under the Katihar Division.

“With the commissioning of both sections, a continuous electrified corridor from Araria to Galgalia has now been established. This achievement significantly strengthens railway connectivity and infrastructure development in North Bihar and the surrounding regions,” it stated.

The newly electrified stretch will bring substantial benefits, including smoother and faster train operations, improved energy efficiency, reduced travel time and lower operational costs.

“It will also decrease reliance on diesel traction and contribute to Indian Railways’ goal of achieving Net Zero Carbon Emission by 2030, reinforcing the Northeast Frontier Railway’s commitment to modern, sustainable and eco-friendly rail transport,” the update added.