Indian railway is in an effort to electrify the entire railway lines of the country within a short period. Most of the important railway lines are already electrified and the rest are under the process. Reputed OHE contractors are in an effort to complete the electric traction project in railway with the support of the reputed rail supplies manufactures of the country. These companies provide the contractors with the materials, tools, inspection vehicles and other supplies needed for electrification work. Here are some of the important benefits of low voltage, low frequency railway overhead electrification system.
Zero level exhaust from the locomotive
This is one of the notable benefits of railway overhead electrification that is enjoyed especially by the passengers. They are made free from the polluted ambiance and environment created by the exhausted smoke and dust from the diesel engines. Passengers can enjoy pollution free atmosphere and ambiance in the trains operating with railway overhead electrification systems.
Boost up the efficiency
Overhead electrification boosts up the power-to-weight ratio since the trains are made free from onboard fuel tanks. Now, trains can work with fewer locomotives with higher limits of speed. The systems are tested and the trains have passed in it by carrying more coaches both in passenger trains and freight carriers. It also assures a high practical limit of power and faster acceleration.
Quick start and stop
This is another benefit of overhead electrification. The train can stop and start quickly. This excellent feature has increased the efficiency and performance of suburban railways in famous cities of Mumbai, Calcutta, etc. It is reported that more than 2300 trains operate in the metropolitan region of Mumbai city. Quick acceleration helps the trains to cover more stations within the quick time, and the Indian Railways is about to spread the suburban railways system to the busiest cities in the country.
Reduces operating cost
This is an important benefit that is enjoyed by the government of the country. The electric traction system is more efficient and economical than internal combustion engines. The reports from the railway department of the country state that electrified sections and trains result in saving annual consumption of four million plus liters of diesel every year, which, in turn, saves Rs.2500 cores of foreign exchange annually.
Environment protection and clearer environment
Electric traction provides a pollution-free atmosphere not only for the passengers but also for the surrounding environment. This is more Eco-friendly than diesel engine especially for the areas with delicate flora and fauna. It reduces air and noise pollution and creates fewer disturbances for wildlife habitat of the region.
Technological advancement in railway
This is the benefit enjoyed by the railway stations and railway department of the country with overhead electrification. Railway undergoes modernization of equipment to bring down the maintenance cost and to increase the reliability of the power system. Signalling and telecommunication systems are also upgraded to for better signalling and communication with the loco pilots for the safe and efficient running of trains. These are some of the benefits of an overhead railway electrification system for railway transportation.
