Indian Railways Commissions First Removable Solar Panel System

The Ministry of Railways has marked a significant sustainability milestone with the commissioning of India’s first removable solar panel system between railway tracks at Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW), Varanasi. The 70-meter-long installation features 28 solar panels with a combined capacity of 15 KWp. Designed for flexibility, the panels can be temporarily removed to facilitate track maintenance or upgrades, enhancing operational adaptability.

In a parallel development supporting freight logistics, Indian Railways on August 10 dispatched the first industrial salt-laden rake from Sanosara (Bhuj–Naliya section) to Dahej. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that the move will unlock new opportunities for the region’s salt industry. According to the Ahmedabad Division, the rake transported 3,851.2 tonnes of industrial salt over a distance of 673.57 km, earning Rs 31.69 lakh in freight revenue.

Additionally, Western Railway has successfully commissioned the first 2x25 kV electric traction system on the Nagda–Khachrod section. This high-capacity electrification will enhance energy efficiency and support the growing volume of freight movement across the network.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.