NEW DELHI (Metro Rail News): The Indian Railways intends to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2030 while also concentrating on expanding network capacity according to a statement released by the Ministry of Railways on 7th October.
According to the report, the nation’s railway network is being electrified in an effort to reduce pollution and conduct transportation in an environment-friendly manner.
The Railways will attempt to reduce its carbon footprint primarily by sourcing its energy requirements from renewable energy sources, the ministry said. Other strategies include taking a multi-pronged approach to electrification of its routes, shifting from diesel to electric traction, promoting energy efficiency, construction of dedicated freight corridors, green certification of railway establishments, etc.
“Indian Railways has planned to gradually reduce its carbon footprint and become Net Zero Carbon Emitter by 2030,” the ministry said.
A 30 GW installation of renewable capacity is anticipated to be needed by 2029–2030. Up until August 2022, Indian Railways had installed 142 MW of rooftop solar capacity and 103.4 MW of wind energy till August, it added.
The railways have electrified 52,508 RKM out of a total BG network of 65,141 RKM (80.61%), the ministry said.
With complete electrification, the demand for electricity will rise from 21 BUs in 2019–20 to approximately 72 BUs in 2029–30.
