Question: What is the proposed cost for 100% Electrification of Broad Gauge Routes of Indian Railways?
(a) Rs.12, 143.50 crore
(b) Rs.12314.50 crore
(c) Rs.12, 134.50 crore
(d) Rs.12, 144.50 crore
Answer: (c)
Related Facts:
- On 12 September 2018, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved the proposal for electrification of remaining un-electrified BG (broad gauge) routes of Indian Railways.
- This comprises 108 sections covering 13,675 route kilometers (16,540 track kilometers) at a cost of Rs.12, 134.50 crore. This electrification is likely to be completed by 2021-22.
- The proposed electrification will amplify the operational efficiency, enhance the line capacity and improve the average speed of trains.
- Electrification will reduce the use of imported fossil fuels following reduction in the consumption of high speed diesel oil by about 2.83 billion liters per annum.
- Advantages of Electrified Line over Diesel Line:
- 100% electrification will provide seamless train operation due to higher haulage capacity and speed of electric locomotives.
- Improved signaling system will lead to enhanced safety in train operation.
- Total shift to electric traction will reduce fossil fuel consumption of about 2.83 billion liters per annum.
- Indian Railways is likely to save Rs 13,510 crore per annum in fuel bill and the same will improve its finances.
- Reduced carbon footprint as environmental cost per Tonne Km for Electric Traction is 1.5 Paisa and for Diesel Traction 5.1 paisa.
- As commitment made by India in COP21 (twenty-first session of the Conference of the Parties), total shift to electric traction will reduce CO2 emission of Railways by 24% till 2027-28.
- The approved electrification will generate direct employment of about 20.4 crore man days during construction phase.
References-
http://pib.nic.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1545763