On The Green Track, Indian Railways Drives India’s Net Zero Goal
Why in News?
Indian Railways is playing a leading role in helping India achieve its Net Zero by 2070 target, as set by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Through green transformation and innovative transport practices, Indian Railways is making significant strides toward a cleaner, greener future. 
Introduction
Whenever you travel by Indian Railways, you are not only choosing comfort or convenience — you are choosing a greener travel mode. Over 700 crore passengers used Indian Railways last year, contributing to this green journey. Indian Railways is helping India transition toward sustainable development by adopting cleaner operations.
Key Achievements and Developments
1. Growth of Railways as Green Transport
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Freight transport has increased from 1,051 million tonnes (2013-14) to 1,617 million tonnes (2023-24), making Indian Railways the 4th largest rail freight carrier in the world.
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Using rail instead of road for cargo reduces carbon emissions significantly. Rail transport is six times more energy-efficient than road transport.
2. Major Savings in Fuel Costs
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Indian Railways’ road-to-rail shift has saved 2,857 crore litres of diesel.
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This translates to savings of approximately ₹2 lakh crore in fuel costs.
3. Cleaner Operations
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Railways release 90% less carbon compared to road transport by trucks.
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This has a direct impact on air quality and reduces India’s carbon footprint.
4. Strategic Reduction in Oil Imports
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Dependence on imported oil has reduced by 10 billion litres per year compared to 2014.
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With an annual addition of 21,000 more wagons, and expansion of high-speed freight corridors, Indian Railways is moving toward a self-reliant energy model.
5. Green Energy Innovations
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30% of traction energy is already green; Indian Railways is now focusing on green workshops and green trains.
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The goal is to make Indian Railways completely green in future.
6. Hydrogen-Powered Trains
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Hydrogen-powered trains are being introduced. The first train will run between Jind and Sonipat in Haryana, covering 2600 passengers.
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Hydrogen trains represent a step forward in zero-emission mobility.
7. Global Recognition and Support
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The World Bank supports Indian Railways’ green logistics.
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PM Modi’s Gati Shakti Plan is helping upgrade rail infrastructure and move India closer to world-class logistics.
Conclusion
Indian Railways is not just transforming transportation; it is driving India’s green future. The continued push for net zero, green energy, and technological innovation ensures that Indian Railways remains a global leader in sustainable transport. On World Environment Day and every day, travelling by train is a climate-smart choice for all citizens.
Q&A Section
Q1. What is the primary goal Indian Railways is contributing to?
Indian Railways is contributing to India’s Net Zero by 2070 target.
Q2. How much fuel has the road-to-rail shift saved?
The shift has saved 2,857 crore litres of diesel, amounting to roughly ₹2 lakh crore in fuel savings.
Q3. How does rail transport compare to road transport in carbon emissions?
Railways emit 90% less carbon compared to road transport by trucks.
Q4. What is the significance of the hydrogen-powered trains initiative?
Hydrogen-powered trains will promote zero-emission transport and enhance green mobility. The first train will operate between Jind and Sonipat in Haryana.
Q5. How is Indian Railways helping reduce oil imports?
By increasing the share of rail in cargo movement, Indian Railways has reduced oil dependence by 10 billion litres annually compared to 2014.
