Indian Railways is working to make train travel between New Delhi and Mumbai faster under Mission Raftaar, with the corridor being upgraded to support train operations at speeds of up to 160 kmph. The move aims to bring the journey time between the two cities down towards 12 hours.

Ongoing Upgrades

Several works are underway, including upgrades to traction, overhead equipment, signalling, yards, and other railway infrastructure. According to Dr. Shivam Sharma, Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of North Central Railway, the latest progress includes the charging of the new 2×25 kV Chhata Traction Substation (TSS) in the Agra Division on September 7. This development is part of the ongoing work on the Palwal-Mathura section, which is an important stretch of the New Delhi-Mumbai route.

The 84 Route Kilometre (RKM) Palwal-Mathura section, with around 336 Track Kilometres (TKM), is being upgraded to support higher-speed train operations. The work is not limited to the power supply system; the national transporter is carrying out coordinated upgrades across multiple departments to ensure trains can safely operate at higher speeds.

Key Developments

  • Work on the Mathura-Bhuteshwar (MTJ-BTSR) section is progressing, focusing on completing AEC work, mast erection, and station-area commissioning.
  • The newly charged Chhata TSS will provide an important power supply facility for the upgraded railway section.
  • Other power supply installations already charged include Kosikalan SP, Mathura SP, and Sholaka SSP.
  • Further commissioning work is planned at several locations:
    • Vrindavan SSP is undergoing final testing.
    • Kotwan SSP is targeted for final testing by September 15.
    • Hodal/Ajhai facilities are scheduled for commissioning during September.
    • RDE TSS is targeted for September 25, while the Rundhi TSS and transmission line are planned for grid integration in October.