ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Railways is embarking on a significant initiative to transition its entire power network, encompassing major railway stations, offices, workshops, and factories, to solar energy systems in multiple phases.
This move is expected to result in substantial cost savings for the department. An official from the Ministry of Railways stated that this transition is anticipated to yield savings of Rs. 1.8 billion in the initial phase alone, with plans to expand the coverage to additional stations, offices, and facilities in subsequent phases.
In the first phase, the focus will be converting approximately 99 formations, including major railway stations, nine divisional headquarters, and other critical offices, to solar power.
To accomplish this, Pakistan Railways intends to enlist the National Engineering Services Pakistan (NESPAK) services to facilitate the transition to a solar-based network.
The official emphasized that this strategic shift to solar energy is driven by the department’s commitment to alleviate the financial burden faced by Pakistan Railways.
Meanwhile, in response to the ongoing energy crisis and rising utility bills, the Pakistan Railways management has introduced a policy prohibiting its officers from using air conditioning before 11 a.m. daily. —APP
