Indian Railways has marked a revolutionary step toward green and sustainable transport. In August 2025, the Ministry of Railways Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW) in Varanasi successfully commissioned India’s first 70-meter removable solar panel system between railway tracks. This unique installation represents a milestone for both energy efficiency and environmental conservation.
The project includes 28 solar panels of 15 KWp capacity, strategically placed between Line 19 tracks for a total of 70 meters in length. This is the first time in India that solar panels have been embedded in railway tracks without requiring extra land acquisition. The panels are mounted on rubber bases to reduce vibration caused by passing trains and secured with epoxy adhesives for durability.
Features of the Solar Panels Installation
One of the most remarkable aspects of this project is its removability. Each panel can be easily detached by maintenance workers using just four stainless steel bolts (S.S. bolts). This ensures smooth maintenance of both the tracks and the solar system.
- Panel Dimensions: 2278 × 1133 × 30 mm
- Panel Weight: 31.83 kg
- Capacity Installed: 15 KWp (28 panels)
- Track Length Covered: 70 meters (Line 19, BLW Varanasi)
The power density has been calculated at 220 KWp/km, while the energy density is at 880 units/km/day. This means that for every kilometer of installation, the Indian Railways can generate 880 units of renewable power every day. With a massive track length of 1.2 lakh kilometers, the potential energy output could reach 3.21 lakh units per year per kilometer—a huge leap toward self-sufficiency in energy.
Why This Is a Important for Indian Railways
This innovative project has several long-term benefits:
- No extra land acquisition – Since the panels are installed between the tracks, vast land resources are saved.
- Sustainable energy – Solar power is renewable, reducing dependency on conventional energy sources.
- High energy output – With 880 units generated per kilometer per day, it ensures consistent green power.
- Low maintenance – The removable design makes it easy for workers to maintain both the track and solar panels.
- Supports green goals – Helps Indian Railways move closer to its net-zero carbon emission target.
This project not only represents a breakthrough for the railways but also shows how innovative engineering can drive sustainability on a massive scale.
FAQs related to Solar Panels Project
Q1. What is special about the solar panels project in Varanasi?
It is India’s first 70-meter removable solar panels system installed between railway tracks, making it a unique step toward green energy.
Q2. How many solar panels were installed and what is their capacity?
A total of 28 solar panels with a combined capacity of 15 KWp were installed at Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW).
Q3. How do maintenance workers manage these solar panels on tracks?
The solar panels can be easily removed using four stainless steel (S.S.) bolts, ensuring smooth track and system maintenance.
Q4. What is the power and energy density of the installed panels?
The system has a power density of 220 KWp/km and generates about 880 units of energy per kilometer every day.
Q5. Why is this project important for Indian Railways?
It helps reduce land acquisition needs, generates clean energy, and supports Indian Railways’ goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions.
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