India is on a fast track to fully electrify its broad-gauge railway network. For EPC (Engineering, Procurement & Construction) contractors, this is a major opportunity.
Indian Railways aims to achieve 100% electrification of its broad-gauge network by 2030. As of 2025, over 62,000 km has already been electrified. This is leading to a surge in tenders for overhead equipment (OHE), substations, transmission lines, and signalling works.
The government is allocating over ₹30,000 crore annually for railway electrification. This means a continuous stream of tenders for EPC contractors across civil, electrical, and transmission work.
Contractors are being engaged for a range of works including overhead electrification (OHE), traction substations, foundations, bridges, SCADA systems, and energy meters.
States like Odisha, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan are seeing the most electrification activity in 2025–26. Zonal railways such as East Coast and North Central are leading in tender volume.
EPC contractors now need to comply with railway electrification (RE) standards, maintain certified safety practices, and demonstrate timely execution. Joint ventures and supplier tie-ups are also gaining preference.
Start prequalifying with zonal railways, build reliable supply chains, and track e-tenders consistently. The opportunity is long-term, but speed and readiness will define who benefits most.