Nagpur Metro has taken a major step towards sustainable urban transport by introducing India’s first inter-track solar power pilot project at the Hingna Depot. This innovative initiative, commissioned in April 2026, makes use of the unused space between metro tracks to generate clean electricity without requiring additional land.

The project has been developed by Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MahaMetro) as part of its broader strategy to integrate renewable energy into urban infrastructure. By utilizing inter-track space, the metro system is setting a new benchmark for efficient and space-saving solar deployment.

Project Capacity and Design

The solar installation covers a stretch of approximately 200 meters and includes a 50 kWp capacity system. It uses high-efficiency monocrystalline, half-cut solar panels that are optimized to perform effectively even in constrained spaces.

The system is expected to generate around 70,000 units of electricity annually. This clean energy production will significantly reduce reliance on grid power and cut carbon emissions by nearly 65 tonnes per year.

Smart Utilization of Existing Infrastructure

One of the most unique aspects of this project is its use of space that would otherwise remain unused. Instead of acquiring new land, the solar panels are installed between active metro tracks, making it a cost-effective and innovative approach.

The electricity generated will be used within the Hingna Depot itself, supporting internal operations and improving overall energy efficiency.

Engineering Challenges and Execution

Installing solar panels between metro tracks involves complex engineering challenges. The system has been carefully designed to handle continuous vibrations from train movement, ensure safety standards, and allow maintenance access without interrupting metro services.

The project has been implemented under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Solar solutions provider Greenlife Solutions Pvt Ltd handled the design and execution, while MahaMetro avoided upfront capital investment.

Future Expansion Potential

Officials have indicated that this pilot project could be expanded further if successful. Similar installations may be introduced at other depots such as Hingna and Mihan, and the concept could also be replicated in metro systems across India.

This initiative highlights how urban transport systems can play a key role in India’s clean energy transition by adopting innovative and scalable renewable solutions.

The Nagpur Metro inter-track solar project represents a significant advancement in integrating renewable energy with urban infrastructure. By transforming unused spaces into power-generating assets, this initiative sets an example for sustainable development in metro networks across the country.