Indian Railways Targeting Net-Zero Carbon Emissions By 2030, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw Tells Lok Sabha

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced in a written response to the Lok Sabha on Wednesday (20 December) that the Indian Railways is targeting net-zero carbon emissions by 2030 according to a report from The Indian Express.

He highlighted the electrification of 60,814 kilometres of broad gauge networks, with 39,013 kilometers achieved between April 2014 and November 2023.

The Northern Railway, covering 6,799 route kilometers, led in electrification.

Responding to MPs' questions about Maharashtra, Vaishnaw mentioned electrifying 146 kilometers of broad gauge network in the state.

He emphasised the Dedicated Freight Corridor projects, such as the completed Eastern DFC and the ongoing Western DFC, which are expected to reduce emissions by approximately 457 million tons CO₂ over 30 years.

Additionally, the Railways have adopted a comprehensive energy efficiency policy, encompassing sustainable buildings, cloud-based monitoring, and 17 measures for energy conservation.

Vaishnaw stated, "The policy also provides for procurement of Bureau of Energy Efficiency 5-star rated equipment," while presenting 17 measures that the Railways has taken for energy conservation.