Himachal Pradesh's Push for Green Energy: Transforming Heritage Railways with Green Hydrogen
Key Ideas
- Himachal CM Sukhvinder Sukhu aims to develop Himachal Pradesh as a 'Green Energy State' by March 2026, with a focus on utilizing green hydrogen.
- The state government has requested Indian Railways to consider running the Kalka-Shimla railway line, a UNESCO World Heritage site, on green hydrogen for environmental sustainability.
- Indian Railways' 'Hydrogen for Heritage' project plans to run 35 trains on green hydrogen, with the aim to be a net zero carbon emitter by 2030.
- Collaboration between the state government and Oil India Limited includes setting up a 1 MW green hydrogen plant in Nalagarh, with potential to expand to 5 MW, for sustainable energy production.
The Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Sukhu, has announced ambitious plans to transform the state into a 'Green Energy State' by 2026. In line with this vision, the state government has approached the Union Ministry of Railways with a proposal to convert the historic Kalka-Shimla railway line to operate on green hydrogen. The CM highlighted Himachal's abundant green power resources that can be harnessed for green hydrogen production.
The Kalka-Shimla narrow gauge railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, holds historical significance dating back to the British colonial era in India. By transitioning this heritage rail line to green energy, the state aims to preserve its historical charm while embracing sustainable practices. The initiative is part of Indian Railways' broader commitment to running 35 trains on green hydrogen under the 'Hydrogen for Heritage' project, with the goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2030.
Additionally, the collaboration between the state government and Oil India Limited is progressing towards establishing a 1 MW green hydrogen plant in Nalagarh, with plans for potential expansion to 5 MW. This partnership signifies a significant step towards integrating cutting-edge technology with historical preservation, as the proximity of the Nalagarh plant to Kalka offers a seamless transition to green hydrogen-powered trains.
The proposed transition of the Shimla-Kalka train and potentially the Pathankot-Jogindernagar train to green hydrogen highlights a promising future for sustainable transportation in Himachal Pradesh. With these initiatives, the state is at the forefront of embracing environmentally friendly practices and paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future.
Topics
India
Sustainable Energy
Environmental Conservation
Government Initiative
Railway Innovation
Historical Preservation
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