Indian Railways has set a bold goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030, as announced by Prime Minister during the 78th Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort. This commitment underscores the government’s dedication to environmental sustainability and marks a significant milestone for the rail sector.
In a recent address to the Lok Sabha, the Railway Minister provided a comprehensive update on the strategies designed to meet this ambitious target. The approach involves a multi-pronged strategy focusing on a shift from diesel to electric traction, enhancing energy efficiency, and increasing the adoption of renewable energy sources. These measures are part of a broader effort to integrate renewable technologies and reduce dependence on fossil fuels such as diesel and coal. To support these objectives, Indian Railways has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United States Agency for International Development/India (USAID/India). Signed on June 14, 2023, the MoU aims to facilitate long-term clean energy planning and energy efficiency policy development while addressing regulatory and implementation challenges. This collaboration is set to continue for five years or until the completion of the South Asia Regional Energy Partnership (SAREP) programme.
In response to questions regarding the development of eco-friendly fuels, the Indian Railways Organization for Alternate Fuel (IROAF) is exploring various alternatives, including blended bio-diesel, CNG, and LNG. Additionally, a pilot project has been initiated to retrofit hydrogen fuel cells on Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) rakes. Currently, 26 DEMU power cars have been converted to CNG-based systems, marking a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions.
The Indian Railways’ commitment to carbon neutrality by 2030 represents a critical shift towards sustainable transportation, aligning with global environmental goals and enhancing India’s leadership in green technology. As the rail sector embarks on this transformative journey, the integration of renewable energy and innovative fuel alternatives will play a pivotal role in achieving the net zero target and advancing the country’s climate commitments.
