Trains running on nuclear power? Indian Railways is considering possibility
What's the story
The Indian Railways is looking at nuclear energy to fulfill its growing power requirements. The move is part of an effort to cut down on fossil fuels and carbon emissions.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw confirmed the development in a written response to the Rajya Sabha.
The minister said, "Nuclear power being a clean and reliable source...will help IR in reducing the dependence on fossil fuels, thereby reducing carbon emissions."
Energy allocation
Railways approaches NPCIL, Power Ministry
The Indian Railways has approached the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL) and the Ministry of Power for nuclear energy allocation.
Vaishnaw said that "the power requirement of the Indian Railways (IR) is increasing consistently year on year," adding that the Railways is exploring all possible options including nuclear energy.
Parliamentary inquiry
TMC MP raises questions on nuclear energy use
TMC MP Sagarika Ghose questioned the use of nuclear energy in the Railways.
She asked what advancements had been made to cut down on fossil fuel usage and what the environmental impact of using nuclear power for trains would be.
Vaishnaw replied, "Nuclear power being a clean and reliable source...will help IR in reducing the dependence on fossil fuels, thereby reducing carbon emissions."