India's Railway Tracks Are Now Generating Solar Power – Here's How Varanasi Is Leading the Green Revolution
For the first time in India, solar panels have been installed between active railway tracks in Varanasi – and this isn’t just another green energy project. It’s a game-changer for sustainable transport.
Why This Innovation Matters
Spearheaded by Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW) and the Ministry of Railways, this project turns unused track space into a clean energy powerhouse without needing extra land.
- No land acquisition required – Solar panels fit snugly between tracks, solving a major infrastructure hurdle.
- Easy to remove & maintain – Designed with shock-absorbing rubber pads, they won’t disrupt train schedules.
- Massive scalability – If expanded nationwide, each km could generate 3.21 lakh units of solar power annually.
How It Works: A Technical Marvel
The panels are mounted on concrete sleepers using a special epoxy adhesive, making them:
✔ Durable – Withstands vibrations from passing trains.
✔ Removable – Maintenance crews can detach them in minutes.
✔ Efficient – The 70-meter pilot stretch (with 28 panels) generates 15 kWp, enough to power parts of the rail network.
Indian Railways’ Bold Net-Zero Push
This isn’t just about one project—it’s part of Indian Railways’ mission to hit net-zero emissions by 2030, decades ahead of India’s national 2070 target.
Did you know?
- Railways already have 4,260 MW solar + 3,427 MW wind power.
- 99% of broad-gauge tracks are electrified.
- Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw believes net-zero could happen by 2025 if projects like this scale up.
A Blueprint for the Future
The Varanasi model proves that renewable energy can work even in crowded urban areas. Imagine this tech in Mumbai, Delhi, or Chennai—solar panels silently powering trains while cutting emissions.
What’s next? If successful, this could inspire similar projects worldwide, proving that smart engineering can make sustainability practical and profitable.
What do you think? Should more Indian cities adopt this? Comment below!
