Portable Solar panels in railway tracks of Varanasi and it becomes the first city in India, Full details 2025.
Portable Solar panels in railway tracks of Varanasi
Indian Railways Marks Green Energy, Freight, and Electrification Milestones in 2025
Indian Railways has introduced a major eco-friendly innovation by setting up the country’s first removable solar panel system between railway tracks. Installed at the Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW) in Varanasi, this project highlights the railways’ strong push towards renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure.
Table of Contents
Green Energy Milestone at BLW, Varanasi
On August 19, 2025, Indian Railways launched a 70-metre removable solar panel system at Banaras Locomotive Works. The setup includes 28 panels generating 15 kWp of power, placed between railway tracks. Its removable design makes maintenance easier and allows smooth integration without disturbing train operations.
Key Highlights
- Location: Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW), Varanasi
- System Size: 70-metre stretch with 28 solar panels
- Power Capacity: 15 kWp renewable energy output
- Design: Removable setup for easy maintenance and operational flexibility
This initiative is the first of its kind in Indian Railways, supporting the larger mission of carbon neutrality and promoting renewable energy in the transport sector.
Freight Operations: New Salt Logistics Route from Bhuj
Alongside its green energy efforts, Indian Railways is also boosting freight connectivity. On August 10, 2025, the first rake carrying industrial salt was dispatched from Sanosara (Bhuj–Naliya section) to Dahej, creating new trade opportunities for Gujarat’s salt industry.
Key Highlights
- Freight Type: Industrial salt
- Total Quantity: 3,851.2 tonnes
- Route: Sanosara to Dahej (673.57 km)
- Revenue Earned: ₹31.69 lakh
- Date of Loading: August 9, 2025
This new logistics service boosts the regional industrial ecosystem while reaffirming Indian Railways’ role as the backbone of affordable and efficient freight transport.
Electrification Breakthrough at Nagda-Khachrod Section
In another major step for railway infrastructure, Western Railway has commissioned India’s first 2×25 kV Electric Traction System at the Nagda–Khachrod section in Madhya Pradesh, under the Ratlam Division.
System Features
- Two Scott-connected 100 MVA power transformers
- Efficient power supply to the Overhead Equipment (OHE)
- First-ever use of Scott Transformer Technology in India
The Nagda traction sub-station stands as a milestone in India’s next-gen electrification drive, designed to cut transmission losses and boost energy efficiency along heavy-load railway corridors.