Reinforcing its commitment to green initiatives such as introducing bio-fuel and solar energy in train operation, railways will observe World Environment Day tomorrow to explore its future course of action to prevent pollution.
Issues related to environment like solid waste management, pollution control, water management and energy management will be discussed at a workshop on 'Environmental Challenges before Indian Railways and Solutions' to be held here tomorrow.
"We are also planning to introduce water audit to assess consumption and wastage at major stations like New Delhi, Old Delhi, Nizamuddin, Lucknow and Varanasi," said a senior Railway Ministry official.
Besides, a waste water recycling plant is also being planned at Delhi Lahori Gate. Recycled water will be used for washing and horticulture purpose.
Railways also plans installing rain water harvesting facilities at its all new projects. 38 such locations have been identified during the year, the official said.
Other green initiatives include development of green patches at New Delhi Railway Station. Bougainvillea plantation has been done from New Delhi to Tilak Bridge Railway Station along the railway boundary. 'Van Mahotsav' was celebrated all over the zone and around two lakh saplings were planted during rainy season last year in railway colonies, besides railway tracks and other railway premises.
As part of its eco-friendly initiative, Northern Railway plans to commence using five per cent bio-diesel as part of fuel in diesel locos, the official said, adding that trials for the purpose have been started.
To meet sustainability challenges, the Railways has undertaken the initiatives such as LED light fittings to reduce power consumption.