- विज्ञापन -
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu announced on Monday that the state government has asked the Ministry of Railways to consider converting the Kalka-Shimla UNESCO World Heritage train to operate on green hydrogen.
In his letter to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, he emphasized the state’s vision to transform this historic railway line into a route powered by green energy.
Sukhu stated that the government aims to establish Himachal Pradesh as a green energy state by March 31, 2026, with various initiatives already in progress to achieve this objective.
He explained that the state is implementing a comprehensive six-pronged strategy to become a certified Green Energy State, significantly contributing to India’s climate goals and aligning with Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). This strategic shift aims to promote equitable and sustainable energy transition while enhancing the state’s economy.
Currently, Himachal Pradesh relies on thermal power for 1,500 million units (MUs) but is on track to replace this with renewable sources like hydro, solar, and wind energy. The state’s total power consumption amounts to 13,500 MUs, a significant portion of which comes from renewable sources.
By achieving 90 percent of renewable energy usage in its power distribution, Himachal Pradesh aims to be recognized as a fully green state within a year, enabling local industries to apply for an ‘Eco Mark’ that will increase their product value.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the focus on expanding solar power generation capacity to 2,000 MW over the next four to five years, noting that solar energy production has doubled in the last two years, underscoring the government’s commitment to clean energy.
Moreover, the government has introduced the ‘Green Panchayat’ initiative, aimed at decentralized renewable energy generation. This program includes the installation of 500 KW grid-connected solar power plants at the panchayat level, with income generated from these projects directed toward eco-friendly and sustainable development initiatives.
Himachal Pradesh is also making strides in the production of ‘Green Hydrogen’ in partnership with Oil India Ltd, with discussions ongoing with private investors to establish additional facilities.
In its push for electric vehicles (EVs), Sukhu stated that 1,500 buses from the state transport corporation will be replaced with electric models in the next two to three years, alongside a transition of the government’s own diesel and petrol vehicles to electric alternatives. Furthermore, six major national highways are being developed as green corridors for EVs.
Under the Rajiv Gandhi Startup Yojana, unemployed youth are receiving a 50 percent grant to acquire EV taxis and buses, promoting the integration of environmentally friendly vehicles in government services.
