Mon Nov 04 11:52:18 UTC 2024: ## Himachal Pradesh Aims to Power Kalka-Shimla Heritage Railway with Green Hydrogen

**Shimla, November 4, 2024:** Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has proposed a bold initiative to transition the Kalka-Shimla narrow-gauge railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to green hydrogen energy. This move aligns with the state’s ambitious goal of becoming a ‘green energy state’ by 2026.

In a letter to Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Mr. Sukhu urged the ministry to consider transforming the historic railway line into a green energy-powered route. He highlighted the state’s commitment to achieving its green energy target, emphasizing its six-pronged strategy to achieve this goal.

“Himachal Pradesh is on track to replace its current thermal power consumption with renewable sources like hydro, solar, and wind power,” Mr. Sukhu stated. He added that the state is already making significant progress in green hydrogen production, with the first facility in collaboration with Oil India Limited (OIL) currently under construction.

The Kalka-Shimla railway, renowned for its scenic mountainous route, was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Site list in 2008. The state government’s proposed green hydrogen transition could further enhance its appeal while contributing to India’s climate commitments and aligning with the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

This move comes as the state pushes forward with its ambitious plan to achieve 90% renewable energy consumption in its power distribution network. This initiative is expected to be completed within the next year and will allow industries in the state to apply for the ‘Eco Mark’, further enhancing the value of their products.

The state government is also focused on solar power generation with plans to establish a 2,000 Megawatt capacity within the next four to five years.

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