In a major green innovation, Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW), popularly known as Bareka, has installed India’s first removable solar panel system between active railway tracks. The landmark project, inaugurated on Independence Day 2025, marks a new chapter in Indian Railways’ push for sustainable energy.
What is Bareka?
Founded in 1956, BLW (Bareka) is a premier locomotive manufacturing unit of Indian Railways, based in Varanasi. It has emerged as a hub of innovation in railway technology, from advanced locomotives to green energy solutions.
The Solar Panel Project
The pilot installation is on Line No. 19 of the BLW workshop.
28 bifacial monocrystalline solar panels spanning 70 metres have been fitted.
Total generation capacity: 15 kWp.
Mounted on concrete track sleepers using a unique, indigenously designed method.
Panels are removable — they can be lifted easily for track maintenance without affecting train operations.
Rajesh Kumar, BLW’s Public Relations Officer, explained:
“India has one of the world’s largest railway networks. The empty stretches between tracks can now be harnessed for solar energy generation — a step towards energy security and sustainability.”
How the Panels Work
●Equipped with rubber mounting pads to absorb vibrations from trains.
●Secured with epoxy adhesive for strong bonding with sleepers.
●Easily detachable for inspections or repairs.
Adds to BLW’s existing rooftop solar plants, making the unit a model for green energy innovation.
Achievements of BLW
● Manufactured 477 locomotives in 2024-25, setting a record.
● Exported 174 locomotives to 11 countries including Mozambique, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Vietnam.
Built landmark locomotives:
WAG-11 (2018): India’s first 12,000 HP twin-section electric locomotive.
WDAP-5 (2019): India’s first bi-mode locomotive, capable of running on both diesel and electric.
Awards & Recognition
●Best Production Unit Shield (2016, 2017, 2018).
●Loco Cab Design Award at the 42nd MSG meeting.
●Global recognition for exports and innovation in locomotive technology.
With this removable solar panel project, Bareka has once again positioned itself as a pioneer—transforming unused railway track space into a source of clean energy and paving the way for greener transportation in India.
