India’s first removable solar panels between rail tracks, Varanasi
Why in the news
The Ministry of Railways has commissioned India’s first removable solar panel system laid between railway tracks. It was installed at Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW) in Varanasi on 15 August 2025.
Key facts
- Length: 70 metres, with 28 panels.
- Capacity: 15 KWp.
- Site: Line No. 19 at BLW.
- Design: panels sit between the tracks and can be lifted off for maintenance or emergencies.
- Use of track space avoids the need for land acquisition.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Panels | 28 |
| Power density | 220 KWp per km |
| Energy density | 880 units per km per day |
| Estimated yearly output | 3.21 lakh units per km |
About the purpose
This is a pilot, meant to use underused track space for clean power. It supports Indian Railways’ goal of net-zero carbon emissions and lower fossil fuel use.
Exam angle
- Remember Varanasi (BLW), 70 m, 28 panels, 15 KWp.
- Linked theme: green railways and net-zero targets.