Indian Railways has sanctioned an investment of Rs 175 crore to expand the electric locomotive homing facilities at the High Horse Power (HHP) Diesel Shed in Raipur, operated under the South East Central Railway (SECR). The project will enable the depot to accommodate and maintain up to 250 three-phase electric locomotives, supporting the rail network’s ongoing transition toward electrified operations.
The infrastructure upgrade is intended to strengthen the railway’s maintenance capabilities as the fleet of electric locomotives continues to grow under its modernisation programme. Homing sheds function as dedicated centres for periodic inspections, preventive maintenance, repairs and servicing, ensuring locomotives remain safe, reliable and ready for operation. The enhanced facility will improve maintenance capacity, increase locomotive availability and streamline operations across the network.
The project will also make more effective use of existing infrastructure while creating opportunities for future technological enhancements at the Raipur depot. With the rapid expansion of India’s electric locomotive fleet, the need for specialised maintenance infrastructure has become increasingly important to sustain efficient rail operations.
Once completed, the upgraded facility is expected to reduce maintenance constraints, improve fleet reliability and support smoother freight and passenger services. The investment further reinforces Indian Railways’ long-term strategy of strengthening operational efficiency and building a modern, technology-driven railway network.