New Delhi, Dec. 17 -- In a significant milestone for the nation's transportation infrastructure, Indian Railways has achieved electrification of 99.2 per cent of its broad gauge network, putting it ahead of countries like the UK (39%), Russia (52%), and China (82%), bringing the country closer than ever to a fully electrified railway system, according to the Ministry of Railways' press release.

Fourteen railway zones, including Central, Eastern, and Northern Railways, have achieved 100% electrification, while 25 states and union territories have also completed electrification.

According to data in a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha, the electrification drive has been rapid, with 46,900 route kilometres electrified between 20...