As the world observes World Earth Day 2026 under the global theme “Our Power, Our Planet,” Indian Railways reaffirms its commitment to environmental stewardship.
Carrying over 2 crore passengers daily across a vast and diverse geography, Railways is not merely a mode of transport but an institution that drives India’s transition towards a greener tomorrow with the scale and reach it boasts of.
“Over the past decade, Indian Railways has systematically transformed its operations, embedding environmental accountability into infrastructure planning, station management, rolling stock, and land use. Today, it stands as one of the world’s most consequential actors in sustainable transportation,” the Ministry of Railways said on Wednesday.
Indian Railways’ tree plantation drive is being carried out across all zones, reflecting a coordinated nationwide effort towards environmental sustainability.
For the 81.59 lakh trees planted during year 2025-26 across all zones, significant contributions have come from leading zones such as Northeast Frontier Railway (9.3 lakh trees), South Central Railway (9 lakh trees), Northeast Railway (8.7 lakh trees) and Northern Railway (8.5 lakh trees).
Extensive plantation along railway tracks, station premises and available railway land is enhancing green cover across diverse regions. This initiative is reducing carbon footprint, supporting biodiversity and improving environmental conditions, making rail travel greener and healthier for passengers.
The large-scale plantation effort is also strengthening climate resilience by acting as a natural carbon sink, while helping in noise and dust mitigation. Improved green cover contributes to better microclimatic conditions at stations and along railway routes, enhancing passenger comfort during travel.
Additionally, the plantation along railway tracks plays a vital role in improving infrastructure safety. Tree roots help bind soil, reducing erosion and preventing landslides, especially in hilly and high-rainfall areas.
Vegetation cover further regulates surface runoff and enhances water absorption, minimizing risks of track destabilisation. These nature-based interventions not only protect railway assets but also ensure safer and more reliable journeys for passengers.