The Indian Railways, on the eve of World Environment Day, made a huge announcement. It has been announced that it is working on becoming the world’s largest Green Railways with ‘net zero carbon emitter’ before 2030. The national transporter authorities said that they are planning to adopt more carbon-friendly technologies, processes and practices that will help them achieve their dream.
The statement read, “Capturing the economic benefits of electric traction in an accelerated manner, the railways has planned to electrify balance Broad Gauge (BG) routes by December, 2023 to achieve 100 percent electrification of BG routes. Head-On-Generation systems, Bio-Toilets and LED lights recreate the train itself into a travel mode that’s kinder to the environment while maintaining comparable passenger comfort.”
Apparently, in July 2016, the railways signed an MoU with the Confederation of Indian Industry for facilitation of Green initiatives on IR. Till now, 39 workshops, 7 production units, 8 loco sheds and one store depot have been certified by ‘GreenCo’. These include 2 platinum, 15 gold and 18 silver ratings.
Green certification basically assessess parameters having direct bearing on the environment, like energy conservation measures, renewable energy usages, waste management, water conservation and reduction in greenhouse gas emission among others.
Highlighting on saving the environment, the statement said that the railways has already incorporated climate change features in its own risk assessments and disaster management protocols.
A report is published by the railways, called the
Environment Sustainability Report, which sets up a framework document, mentioning strategies and main points in the context of climate change.