Varanasi Becomes First Indian City to Install Portable Solar Panels Between Railway Tracks

Indian Railways has taken another significant stride in its journey towards achieving net-zero emissions . In a groundbreaking initiative, Varanasi has become the first city in India to introduce portable solar panels between railway tracks , marking a new era of sustainable energy use in the transport sector.

India’s First Removable Solar Panel System

The milestone was achieved by Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW), which has commissioned the nation’s first 70-metre-long removable solar panel system. This pilot project features 28 high-efficiency panels with a total capacity of 15 KWp. Installed on workshop line number 19, the system has been indigenously designed to fit between tracks without disrupting train operations.

Smart Design with Seasonal Flexibility

What makes this initiative unique is the portability of the panels. Unlike conventional solar plants, these panels are removable, making it easier for railways to carry out maintenance work or adapt to seasonal requirements. This flexibility ensures both efficiency and durability, without compromising the operational safety of the rail lines.

Technical Details of the Project

Solar Panel Installation Between Tracks in Varanasi: Project Specifications

Parameter Details

Length of Track	70m
Capacity of Installed Solar Plant	15 KWp
No. of Solar Panel	28
Power density	240 KWp/KM
Energy density	960 unit/KM/Day

Solar Panel Specifications

Parameter Details

Length	2278 mm
Width	1133 mm
Height	30 mm
Weight	31.83 Kg
Junction box IP	68
Cable connection	300 mm cable, MC4 compatible
Maximum system voltage	1500 v
Application class	Class A (Safety class II)
Cells	144 half cut mono crystalline P type PERC bifacial collar cells multi bus bar
Encapsulation	High resistivity & low MVTR
Substrate	Transparent
Frame	Anodized Frame

Electrical Data

Parameter Value

Wp (watt)	602
Voltage (mp) (volt)	41.78
Current (mp)(amp)	13.24
Open circuit voltage (Voc) (volt)	49.71
IS c (amp)	15.16
Module efficiency (%)	20.15

Nationwide Potential

With a track network of over 1.2 lakh km, Indian Railways sees massive potential for scaling this project. By using yard lines and idle stretches of tracks, large-scale solar energy can be generated without requiring extra land. Estimates suggest the scheme could generate 3.5 lakh units of electricity per km each year.

A Step Towards Greener Railways

This initiative in Varanasi not only marks a technological milestone but also sets the foundation for a cleaner future. By harnessing unused track space for renewable energy, Indian Railways is driving innovation while contributing to India’s broader climate goals.