TBM Staff - Mumbai
The Himachal Pradesh government has urged the Railway Ministry to consider converting the Kalka-Shimla rail line to green hydrogen power, aligning with its goal to be a certified Green Energy State by 2026. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu highlighted this initiative as part of the state’s broader push for sustainable energy and environmental preservation.
The Kalka-Shimla railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is not only a vital transport link but also a popular tourist attraction, making its transition to green hydrogen both practical and symbolic. The shift would reinforce Himachal Pradesh’s commitment to renewable energy, which is also reflected in its aim to replace thermal power consumption with hydro, solar, and wind sources, achieving 90% renewable energy in its power network.
In addition to rail electrification, the state government is focusing on expanding solar power capacity to 2,000 megawatts over the next five years. Solar power generation has doubled in the past two years, underscoring Himachal’s dedication to clean energy. The government is also converting its vehicle fleet to electric and developing six National Highways as green EV corridors.
Through these initiatives, Himachal Pradesh aims to be India’s first fully green state, enabling local industries to seek ‘Eco Mark’ certification for enhanced product value, while contributing to India’s climate commitments and sustainable development goals.
