Railway Minister inspects Hydrogen Train and Shakur Basti depot facilities
From hydrogen-powered trains to modern station upgrades, Indian Railways is steadily moving towards cleaner transport, better passenger facilities and a greener future, while keeping a close eye on projects on the ground.
The push towards a cleaner and more modern railway network gathered pace this week as Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw reviewed the progress of the Hydrogen Train project, inspected advanced maintenance facilities at Shakur Basti Depot, and checked redevelopment work at Gurugram Railway Station.
The visit focused on railway modernisation, green railways and infrastructure upgrades that are expected to improve operations and passenger experience.
The minister also interacted with railway staff and passengers, while reviewing ongoing projects across the Tilak Bridge–Shakur Basti rail section of Northern Railway.
ADVANCED FACILITIES UNDER REVIEW
During the inspection, Vaishnaw visited Shakur Basti Station and examined the Retractable Overhead Equipment (OHE) system, which helps ensure safer and more efficient maintenance of trains and locomotives inside maintenance sheds.
He also inspected the bogie pit and bogie lifting facilities and directed officials to improve operational efficiency further.
HYDROGEN TRAIN PROJECT IN FOCUS
One of the key stops during the visit was the Hydrogen Train project. The minister reviewed the progress of the initiative, which is part of Indian Railways' efforts to adopt cleaner and more environmentally friendly technologies.
Hydrogen-powered trains are being seen as an important step towards reducing emissions and supporting the long-term goal of making rail transport greener.
GREEN RAILWAYS AND ENVIRONMENT DAY
On World Environment Day, Vaishnaw participated in a plantation drive at the depot and planted a sapling. He also reiterated Indian Railways' commitment to environmental conservation.
The railway network is moving towards 100 per cent electrification, which is expected to support India's broader goal of becoming a net-zero carbon emitter in the future.
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INTERACTION WITH STAFF AND PASSENGERS
The minister met railway employees, maintenance workers and other staff members at the depot. He listened to their experiences, understood operational challenges and directed officials to address concerns within a defined timeframe.
Later, he carried out a surprise inspection of Gurugram Railway Station, where redevelopment work is underway at a cost of Rs 300 crore. He reviewed the progress of the project and issued directions to officials overseeing the upgrade.
Vaishnaw also interacted with passengers at the station, discussing railway services, travel experiences and challenges faced during their journeys.