Pakistan Railways is set to convert the power network of all its stations, including major railway stations, offices, workshops, and factories, to solar energy in a phased approach. This initiative is expected to yield substantial savings for the department, amounting to billions of rupees.
An official from the Ministry of Railways said that the initial phase of this project is projected to save Rs. 1.8 billion for the department. In the first phase, Pakistan Railways plans to transition approximately 99 formations, which include major railway stations, nine divisional headquarters, and other key offices, to solar energy. Subsequent phases will incorporate more stations, offices, and facilities.
To facilitate this transition, Pakistan Railways will enlist the expertise of the National Engineering Services Pakistan (NESPAK). The decision to switch to solar power aims to alleviate the financial strain on Pakistan Railways, which has been facing economic challenges. The move to adopt solar energy is seen as a strategic measure to reduce the economic burden on the department.