Indian Railways plants record 81.59 lakh trees across zones in 2025-26

Indian Railways has planted a record 81.59 lakh trees across its zones in 2025-26. The record underlines the scale of tree planting carried out across the network this year.

In Short

• Indian Railways recorded plantation of 81.59 lakh trees during 2025-26
• The tree planting exercise was carried out across railway zones
• The latest figure stands out as a record for Railways

Indian Railways is steadily transforming itself into one of the world's largest environmentally conscious transportation networks. On World Earth Day 2026, the national transporter highlighted a series of major sustainability achievements, ranging from large-scale tree plantation drives and water conservation initiatives to renewable energy adoption and near-complete electrification.

With millions of passengers relying on rail travel every day, these initiatives are helping reduce environmental impact while creating a cleaner and greener travel experience.

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81 LAKH TREES PLANTED ACROSS THE COUNTRY

Indian Railways planted an impressive 81.59 lakh trees during 2025-26 across its various zones. The initiative is aimed at increasing green cover along railway tracks, station premises and other available railway land.

Apart from improving air quality and supporting biodiversity, these plantations act as natural carbon sinks and help reduce dust and noise pollution. Green spaces also create more comfortable surroundings for passengers and railway staff.

Importantly, trees planted near tracks help prevent soil erosion and landslides by strengthening the ground with their root systems, making railway infrastructure safer and more resilient.

WATER CONSERVATION TAKES CENTRE STAGE

Recognising the growing challenge of water scarcity, Indian Railways has adopted a multi-pronged approach focused on harvesting rainwater, recycling wastewater and restoring water bodies.

Since 2016-17, the Railways has installed 8,313 rooftop rainwater harvesting structures across the country. These systems collect and store rainwater for use in station operations, gardening and sanitation, reducing dependence on external water sources.

The initiative is particularly beneficial in water-stressed regions where access to reliable water supplies remains a challenge.

RECYCLING WASTEWATER FOR A GREENER NETWORK

Water recycling has become a key pillar of the Railways' sustainability strategy. A total of 185 water recycling plants have been commissioned across railway zones.

These facilities treat wastewater generated during coach washing and maintenance activities, allowing it to be reused for cleaning, gardening and industrial purposes.

In the last financial year alone, 26 new recycling plants were added, demonstrating the organisation's continued focus on reducing freshwater consumption.

RESTORING PONDS, TANKS AND WETLANDS

Indian Railways has restored 109 ponds, tanks and wetlands located within or near railway land.

These restored water bodies help recharge groundwater reserves, support local biodiversity and act as natural buffers during heavy rainfall. The benefits extend beyond railway premises, helping nearby communities become more resilient to both floods and droughts.

INDIA'S FIRST WATER-NEUTRAL RAILWAY DEPOT

A major milestone has been achieved at the Kankaria Coaching Depot in Ahmedabad, which has become India's first water-neutral railway depot.

The depot treats and reuses nearly all wastewater generated during coach washing and maintenance operations, drastically reducing the need for fresh water and setting a benchmark for sustainable railway operations.

99.6% OF THE BROAD GAUGE NETWORK ELECTRIFIED

One of the biggest environmental achievements of Indian Railways has been the large-scale electrification of its network.

As of March 2026, 99.6% of the Broad Gauge network has been electrified, covering nearly 69,873 route kilometres. This transition has significantly reduced diesel consumption and lowered greenhouse gas emissions.

Compared to 2016-17 levels, Railways saved approximately 178 crore litres of diesel in 2024-25, reducing dependence on imported crude oil while improving energy efficiency.

BIO-TOILETS IMPROVING SANITATION

Indian Railways has installed over 3.66 lakh bio-toilets in passenger coaches since 2014.

These toilets use microbial technology to break down human waste into water and gases, eliminating the direct discharge of waste onto railway tracks.

The initiative has contributed to cleaner stations, reduced track corrosion, improved onboard hygiene and better environmental protection.

SOLAR AND WIND ENERGY POWERING OPERATIONS

Renewable energy is becoming increasingly important for Indian Railways.

By December 2025, the network had commissioned approximately 909 MW of solar power capacity and 103 MW of wind power capacity. Additionally, another 3,300 MW of renewable energy capacity has been tied up through various solar, wind and hybrid projects.

This shift towards clean energy supports long-term sustainability and strengthens India's energy security.

100% LED LIGHTING ACROSS THE NETWORK

Indian Railways has completed the transition to LED lighting across its offices, stations, service buildings and residential colonies.

LED lighting consumes significantly less electricity than conventional lighting while providing better illumination. The move has improved passenger safety and comfort while lowering the network's overall energy consumption.

The Railways' commitment to energy conservation has earned national recognition. In 2025, Indian Railways received seven National Energy Conservation Awards across three categories.

The achievement highlights the success of various initiatives, including the use of energy-efficient appliances, BLDC fans, advanced motors and other power-saving technologies.

Indian Railways' sustainability journey reflects a broader commitment to balancing growth with environmental responsibility. Through tree plantation, water conservation, renewable energy adoption, sanitation improvements and extensive electrification, the organisation is steadily moving towards a greener future.

Every tree planted, every drop of water conserved and every unit of clean energy generated contributes to making India's railway network more sustainable, resilient and environmentally friendly for generations to come.

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