Indian Railways Commissions First Removable Solar Panel System Between Tracks at BLW, Varanasi

Indian Railways has taken a significant step toward sustainable transport innovation by commissioning India’s first removable solar panel system between railway tracks. Installed at the Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW) in Varanasi, this green energy initiative showcases the railway’s growing commitment to renewable energy integration and eco-friendly infrastructure.

Green Energy Milestone at BLW, Varanasi

On August 19, 2025, the Ministry of Railways announced the operationalization of a 70-metre removable solar panel system, consisting of 28 solar panels generating 15 kWp, positioned between railway tracks. This system is not only innovative in design but is also removable, enabling maintenance flexibility and integration without disrupting operations.

Key Features

• Location: Banaras Locomotive Works, Varanasi
• System: 70-metre track length, 28 solar panels
• Capacity: 15 kWp
• Type: Removable design for operational adaptability

The initiative marks a first in Indian railway engineering, contributing to the broader goals of carbon neutrality and renewable energy adoption in the transport sector.

Freight Operations: New Salt Logistics Route from Bhuj

In addition to green energy developments, Indian Railways is strengthening its freight network. On August 10, 2025, the first industrial salt-loaded rake was dispatched from Sanosara (Bhuj–Naliya section) to Dahej, opening new trade corridors for the salt industry in Gujarat.

Key Highlights

• Freight Type: Industrial salt
• Quantity: 3,851.2 tonnes
• Route: Sanosara to Dahej (673.57 km)
• Earnings: ₹31.69 lakh
• Date of Loading: August 9

This new logistics service enhances the regional industrial ecosystem and underscores Indian Railways’ role as a backbone of cost-effective freight movement.

Electrification Breakthrough at Nagda–Khachrod Section

In a parallel advancement in railway infrastructure, Western Railway commissioned India’s first 2×25 kV Electric Traction System at the Nagda–Khachrod section in Madhya Pradesh under the Ratlam Division.

This system includes,

• Two Scott-connected 100 MVA power transformers
• Efficient electrical load feeding to Overhead Equipment (OHE)
• Scott Transformer Technology, being used for the first time in India

The Nagda traction sub-station is now a pioneering node in India’s next-generation electrification strategy, aimed at reducing transmission losses and improving energy efficiency across high-load corridors.