New Delhi , September 2025: Indian Railways is on the brink of a historic transformation — not just in terms of infrastructure, but sustainability. With 99.15% of its routes now electrified, the national transporter is just 646 kilometers away from fully transitioning away from diesel. These last few segments, mostly in Assam, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Goa, are expected to be completed soon.
This achievement is a key milestone in India’s push for clean, efficient, and future-ready transport, and it brings Indian Railways significantly closer to its goal of becoming carbon-neutral by 2030.
Electrification: A Milestone Nearly Complete
What began as an ambitious modernization plan has now reached its final stage. The near-complete electrification of India’s vast rail network means reduced fuel costs, fewer emissions, and a stronger push toward cleaner mobility.
By switching to electric locomotives, Indian Railways is cutting millions of liters of diesel consumption annually — a critical step toward meeting India’s climate goals and creating a more eco-friendly transportation system.
Harnessing the Sun: Renewable Energy Expansion
Beyond electrification, Indian Railways is taking major steps in generating its own clean energy, with a renewable capacity goal of over 4,500 megawatts.
Key developments include:
- Installation of 236 MW rooftop solar panels across railway stations and buildings
- Progress on 1,040 MW land-based solar plants to power operations sustainably
These efforts are not only reducing the network’s dependence on traditional energy sources but also contributing to the national grid, showcasing Indian Railways as a leader in green infrastructure.
Hydrogen Trains: India’s Leap into Future Mobility
In a bold move that puts India at the forefront of green transportation, the country is now developing its first hydrogen-powered train. Designed using fully indigenous technology, the hydrogen engine produces 1,200 horsepower and is among the most powerful of its kind globally.
The inaugural train will be tested on the Jind–Sonipat route in Haryana, marking the beginning of a new era in Indian Railways.
What makes hydrogen trains significant:
- They emit only water vapor, making them one of the cleanest transport options
- They operate quietly and efficiently
- They reduce dependency on fossil fuels and imported energy sources
Under current plans, Indian Railways aims to roll out at least 35 hydrogen-powered trains by the year 2030, aligning perfectly with the country’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) and net-zero emission targets.
Redefining Public Transport on a Global Scale
Indian Railways isn’t just improving efficiency — it’s rewriting the rulebook for how large-scale public transport systems can adopt clean energy, reduce environmental impact, and support innovation at scale.
Its journey from diesel engines to electric trains, and now toward hydrogen propulsion, shows a commitment not just to progress, but to responsible progress.
The Road Ahead: Powered by Clean Energy
With just a small portion of electrification left and the hydrogen project gaining momentum, Indian Railways is truly steering into a greener future. It’s setting an example for other nations on how a legacy system can evolve — not slowly, but boldly.
As the wheels of progress turn, they now do so with less pollution, more innovation, and a firm focus on sustainability.