Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw reviewed the progress of Indian Railways‘ hydrogen train programme during an inspection of the Tilak Bridge-Shakur Basti rail section in Delhi on Friday, 5 June.
During the visit, the minister held a review meeting with senior railway officials and assessed the progress of ongoing railway infrastructure and maintenance projects in the region.
A key highlight of the inspection was the review of the hydrogen train project, which Indian Railways is developing as part of its broader push towards cleaner and environmentally sustainable transportation.
The minister examined the progress of the green technology initiative, which is aimed at supporting Indian Railways’ long-term goal of reducing pollution across its operations.
At Shakur Basti Depot, Vaishnaw also inspected several advanced maintenance facilities, including the Retractable Overhead Equipment (OHE) system used for the safe maintenance of locomotives and trains inside sheds.
The minister reviewed the depot’s bogie pit and bogie lifting facilities and directed officials to further improve operational efficiency at the ground level.
The inspection coincided with World Environment Day.
As part of the observance, Vaishnaw participated in a plantation drive within the depot premises and planted a sapling, reiterating Indian Railways’ commitment to environmental conservation.
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The ministry said Indian Railways is moving rapidly towards 100% electrification, a transition that is expected to contribute significantly to India’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions.
During his visit, the minister interacted with maintenance personnel and railway employees at the depot.
He listened to operational challenges raised by staff members and directed senior officials to ensure their timely resolution.
Vaishnaw also carried out a surprise inspection of Gurugram Railway Station, where he reviewed the progress of the ongoing redevelopment project.
The station is being redeveloped at a cost of ₹300 crore as part of Indian Railways’ station modernisation programme.
The minister reviewed the construction works and issued directions to officials overseeing the project.
He also interacted with passengers at the station to gather feedback on railway services, travel experiences and issues faced during their journeys.
