Sustainable Railways in India?
Siemens Mobility, an automation company, has partnered with Indian Railways to create more energy efficiency and safety in the rail system in India. But, how is Siemens doing to go forward with this? What are the overall objectives?
India has the fourth largest rail network in the world, meaning that the railway is one of the main sources of transportation in India. Though some states in India have achieved almost 100% electrification, a major issue with electrifying all trains is that there are still existing trains that have diesel locomotives. Siemens is providing India Railways with multiple 9000 HP Locomotives. These locomotives are electric and will be serviced for 35 years by Siemens.
Indian Railways’ objectives are to cause 100% electrification, cut down carbon emission, and increase haul capacity. Not only will the new locomotives allow these objectives to be accomplished, but they will also be cost-effective due to the fact that Siemens is only changing the engines of diesel-based trains instead making brand new electric trains.
If a highly-populated and railway dependent country like India can work quickly to decrease pollution and environmental impact of their entire railway system, other countries, like the United States, can also strive to help the environment by taking on energy efficient projects similar to this.
Sources:
Partnering with Indian Railways
Siemens To Make India's First 9000 HP Electric Loco For Indian Railways: Exclusive Interview
