Indian Railways Installs Nation’s First Removable Solar Panel System Between Tracks At Varanasi’s Locomotive Production Unit

The Ministry of Railways on Monday (18 August) unveiled a renewable energy initiative at Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW) in Varanasi, where India’s first removable solar panel system has been installed between railway tracks.

In a celebratory note on X, the ministry wrote, “Indian Railways marks a historic first! Banaras Locomotive Works, Varanasi, commissioned India’s first 70-metre removable solar panel system (28 panels, 15KWp) between railway tracks—a step towards green and sustainable rail transport.”

The initiative is being seen as a template for harnessing clean energy without obstructing train operations.

Reports suggest that the solar panels have been fixed onto the concrete sleepers with epoxy adhesive and cushioned with rubber pads to endure the vibrations of passing trains.

Their removable design makes routine upkeep simpler, ensuring maintenance can be carried out without halting train operations, an edge over conventional permanent installations.

If scaled up, the initiative could generate an estimated 321,000 kWh per km each year, tapping into the otherwise unused space between tracks and eliminating the need for extra land acquisition.

In another breakthrough, Western Railway last week successfully commissioned the nation’s first 2×25 kV Electric Traction System on the Nagda–Khachrod section of Ratlam Division.

Powered by two Scott-connected 100 MVA transformers, the system promises more efficient delivery of electricity to overhead equipment.

These developments signal that Indian Railways is staying firmly on track towards cleaner and more efficient transport for the future.

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