New Delhi [India], August 18 (ANI): The Ministry of Railways on Monday announced a major step 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 stated, “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 its first industrial salt-loaded rake from Sanosara (Bhuj-Naliya section) to Dahej, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said. He noted that this initiative will open “new avenues” for the region’s salt industry and boost freight growth.
Ahmedabad Division Railway Manager (DRM) reported that the first rake from Sanosara Goods Shed, loaded on August 9, carried 3,851.2 tonnes of industrial salt over 673.57 km, generating Rs 31.69 lakh in freight earnings. In a post on X, he wrote, “Achievement for Ahmedabad Division! First rake of industrial salt loaded from Sanosara (SNSR) Goods Shed—boosting regional industry and strengthening India’s logistics network!”
Additionally, on August 12, Western Railway achieved another milestone with the successful commissioning and energisation of the first 2×25 kV Electric Traction System at the Nagda-Khachrod section under the Ratlam Division. The system incorporates two Scott-connected 100 MVA power transformers for efficient feeding of electrical load to the Overhead Equipment (OHE), marking a first in India using Scott transformer technology.
These developments reflect Indian Railways’ focus on sustainable energy, technological innovation, and strengthening freight and logistics networks across the country.
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