Ashwani Kumar on 2025-05-30
How Indian Railways Is Achieving This Green Milestone
1. Massive Electrification Drive
Over 90% of Indian Railways’ routes are now electrified, and the target is to hit 95% by 2029-30. This drastically reduces dependence on diesel, a key source of carbon emissions.
2. Net-Zero Scope 1 Emissions
Scope 1 emissions, which cover direct emissions from owned or controlled sources (like diesel engines), will be entirely offset by December 2025. Officials estimate a net offset of 2.2 million tonnes of CO₂, surpassing emissions by 200,000 tonnes.
3. Diversified Clean Energy Sources
By 2030, Indian Railways plans to consume 10 GW of electricity from:
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3 GW renewables (solar, hydro, wind)
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3 GW thermal and nuclear sources
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4 GW from agreements with power distributors
4. Cutting Diesel Dependence
Projected diesel expenditure in FY 2025-26 is ₹9,528.53 crore, the lowest in over a decade, offering significant cost savings.
Environmental, Economic, and Strategic Advantages
✅ Environmental Gains
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Massive carbon emission reductions from electrified and green-powered operations.
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Reduction in pollution in urban and rural corridors where railways operate.
✅ Economic Impact
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Reduced import burden for diesel and fuel.
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Cost savings redirected toward modernization and infrastructure development.
✅ Energy Security
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Sourcing from nuclear and renewables ensures long-term energy sustainability.
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Reduces volatility from global crude oil prices.
✅ Global Recognition
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Positions India as a global leader in green transportation.
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Supports India’s Paris Agreement goals and net-zero targets for 2070.
Challenges and Considerations
While the progress is commendable, the Railways face certain challenges:
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Initial capital investment in renewable and nuclear energy setups.
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Grid reliability and integration of diverse energy sources.
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Monitoring and verification of emission offsets to meet international benchmarks.
The Bigger Picture
Indian Railways is not just transforming its own operations but setting a precedent for public sector enterprises globally. Its strategy highlights how large-scale public infrastructure can pivot toward sustainability while delivering economic efficiency.
The journey toward 100% green operations continues — with Scope 2 and Scope 3 (indirect emissions from electricity and supply chains) now under focus. Requests for 2 GW of nuclear power and 500 MW round-the-clock renewables reflect a clear commitment to clean energy partnerships.
Disclaimer
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean that Indian Railways will achieve 'net-zero' by 2025?
It means that Indian Railways will offset all of its direct carbon emissions, primarily from diesel usage, through electrification and green energy, resulting in zero net emissions.
How is Indian Railways reducing its carbon footprint?
By electrifying over 90% of its routes, shifting to renewable and nuclear energy sources, and phasing out diesel usage, Indian Railways is cutting both direct and indirect emissions.
What is Scope 1 net-zero, and has Indian Railways achieved it?
Scope 1 net-zero refers to neutralizing direct emissions from operations like fuel combustion. Indian Railways will achieve Scope 1 net-zero by December 2025, offsetting more emissions than it produces.
How much diesel cost will Indian Railways save due to electrification?
The diesel cost is projected to drop to ₹9,528.53 crore in 2025–26 — the lowest in over a decade — due to the shift toward electric traction.
What role does renewable energy play in Indian Railways' green plan?
Renewables like solar, wind, and hydropower will supply at least 3 GW of electricity by 2030, making them a core part of Indian Railways' sustainable energy mix.
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