Special Correspondent
Pune: Under the visionary leadership of Divisional Railway Manager Rajesh Verma and Senior Divisional Electrical Engineer (General) Parag Aknurwar, the Pune Division of Central Railway has emerged as a frontrunner in sustainable development by embracing solar energy. This initiative aligns with the division’s commitment to environmental conservation and energy optimization.
The journey began in 2016 with the installation of a 160 KWp Solar PV Rooftop Power Plant at the PRS building in Pune. Since then, the division has expanded its solar energy capacity to 2.74 MW across 42 locations, including major stations such as Pune, Daund, Satara, Kolhapur, Shivajinagar, Khadki, and Pimpri. Additionally, the Diesel Loco Shed and DRM Office Building have also benefitted from these solar installations.
In furthering its green energy goals, the Pune Division has also introduced Solar Standalone Street Lights at remote locations, ensuring greater energy efficiency and extending the benefits of renewable energy to more areas.
The results of this effort have been impressive:
Generation of 1.80 Lakh Units of solar energy per month
Monthly savings of Rs. 12 Lakhs on energy costs
Reduction of 3,250 tons of CO2 emissions annually
Environmental benefits equivalent to the planting of 1.08 lakh teak trees
These accomplishments highlight the Pune Division’s dedication to sustainability, marking a significant contribution to the broader objective of achieving a cleaner, greener environment. By spearheading this initiative, the division continues to set an example for eco-friendly railway operations while advancing India’s renewable energy ambitions.
