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Key Points

Indian Railways has taken a major step toward sustainability by installing the country's first removable solar panel system between tracks at Banaras Locomotive Works. The 15KWp system is part of the railways' push for green energy solutions. Additionally, the railways flagged off its first industrial salt-loaded freight rake, boosting regional trade and logistics. Western Railway also achieved a milestone with a new electric traction system, enhancing efficiency.

Key Points: Indian Railways Launches First Removable Solar Panels Between Tracks

  • Banaras Locomotive Works installs 28 solar panels between tracks
  • System generates 15KWp of renewable energy
  • First industrial salt-loaded rake boosts freight earnings
  • Western Railway commissions advanced 2x25 kV electric traction system
2 min read

Indian Railways commissions first removable solar panel system between tracks

Indian Railways installs India's first 15KWp removable solar panel system between tracks at Banaras Locomotive Works, boosting green energy initiatives.

"Indian Railways marks a historic first! Banaras Locomotive Works commissioned India's first removable solar panel system between tracks. — Ministry of Railways"

New Delhi, August 18

The Ministry of Railways on Monday announced a milestone in green energy innovation, with Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW), Varanasi, commissioning India's first removable solar panel system installed between railway tracks.

In a post on X, the ministry said, "Indian Railways marks a historic first! Banaras Locomotive Works, Varanasi, commissioned India's first 70m removable solar panel system (28 panels, 15KWp) between railway tracks--a step towards green and sustainable rail transport."

Earlier on August 10, Indian Railways flagged off the first industrial salt-loaded rake from Sanosara (Bhuj-Naliya section) to Dahej, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said on Sunday.

Sharing an X post, he said that this industrial salt-loaded rake will open "new avenues" for the region's salt industry.

"Indian Railways flags off first industrial salt-loaded rake from Sanosara (Bhuj-Naliya section) to Dahej. This logistics solution opens new avenues for the region's salt industry and boosts freight growth," he wrote.

Ahmedabad Division Railway Manager (DRM) said that the first rake from Sanosara Goods Shed was loaded on Saturday with 3851.2 tonnes of industrial salt, covering 673.57 km, and will generate Rs 31.69 lakh in earnings. "Achievement for Ahmedabad Division! First rake of industrial salt loaded from Sanosara (SNSR) Goods Shed on 9 Aug 2025 -- 3851.2 tonnes, covering 673.57 km, generating Rs 31.69 lakh in freight earnings.

Boosting regional industry, strengthening India's logistics network!" Ahmedabad DRM wrote on X. "Ahmedabad Division achieves a new milestone! First-ever rake of Industrial Salt successfully loaded from Sanosara Goods Shed on 9 August 2025, marking a boost in freight movement and trade connectivity," another X post said.

Apart from this, on August 12 Western Railway achieved a significant milestone with the successful commissioning and energisation of the First 2x25 kV Electric Traction System at the Nagda-Khachrod section under the Ratlam Division.

The system includes two Scott-connected 100 MVA Power Transformers for efficient feeding of electrical load to the Overhead Equipment (OHE).

The Nagda TSS was first to be energised by using Scott Technology of Transformer on PAN India and state of art technology has been erected and commissioned successfully.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Finally some good news about our railways! The solar project and salt transport both show how railways can drive economic growth while being eco-friendly. More such innovations please!
R
Rohit P
15KWp seems quite small scale. While the concept is good, Indian Railways should think bigger - imagine solar panels along all major routes! That would make real impact.
S
Sarah B
As someone who frequently travels by train, I'm excited about these green initiatives. But hope they maintain the panels properly - we don't want another white elephant project.
K
Karthik V
The salt transport news is equally important! Gujarat's salt industry will get a big boost. Railways connecting industries to ports - this is the infrastructure development India needs.
M
Meera T
Good steps, but what about basic amenities at stations? My local station still doesn't have clean toilets. Hope they balance high-tech projects with basic improvements too.

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