LUCKNOW: Railways has taken another step towards running trains at speeds of up to 160 kmph on the New Delhi-Mumbai route, with a new traction substation at Chhata becoming operational on Sept 7.“Simply put, the substation will provide the stronger and more stable electricity supply needed for trains to run at higher speeds. It is part of Mission Raftaar, under which railway tracks, power supply, signalling and other infrastructure are being upgraded,” said chief public relations officer Shivam Sharma of North Central Railway zone.The project aims to eventually reduce the New Delhi-Mumbai journey to around 12 hours. A key focus is the 84-km Palwal-Mathura section, where infrastructure is being prepared for faster train operations.Several power facilities at Chhata, Kosikalan, Mathura and Sholaka have already been commissioned.Facilities at Vrindavan, Kotwan, Hodal and Ajhai are expected to follow this month, while other works are targeted for September and October.Railways is also carrying out track and yard remodelling at Mathura and Bhuteshwar. The current target is to complete the remaining infrastructure works by Sept 30, paving the way for high-speed trials on the section.
