Indian Railways has announced a series of groundbreaking developments aimed at strengthening sustainable transport, boosting freight growth, and advancing electrification across the network.
On Monday, the Ministry of Railways said Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW), Varanasi, has commissioned the country’s first removable solar panel system installed between railway tracks. The 70-meter installation, comprising 28 panels with a capacity of 15KWp, marks a “historic first” in green innovation. “A step towards green and sustainable rail transport,” the ministry posted on X, highlighting its potential to reduce dependence on conventional power sources.
Meanwhile, freight operations also reached a new milestone. On August 10, the first industrial salt-loaded rake was flagged off from Sanosara in the Bhuj–Naliya section to Dahej. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said the move would open “new avenues” for the region’s salt industry.
According to the Ahmedabad Division Railway Manager, the rake carried 3,851.2 tonnes of industrial salt over a distance of 673.57 km, generating ₹31.69 lakh in freight earnings. Officials said the development strengthens regional industry and enhances connectivity. “A significant achievement for Ahmedabad Division,” the DRM posted, calling it a boost for trade and logistics.
Adding to these advances, on August 12 Western Railway commissioned the first 2×25 kV Electric Traction System at the Nagda–Khachrod section under Ratlam Division. The system employs two Scott-connected 100 MVA Power Transformers, designed for efficient feeding of electrical load to the overhead equipment (OHE). Officials noted that this is the first time Scott Transformer technology has been deployed in India for railway traction.
