Railways offer a far more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly mode of transport

India’s transport sector contributes around 14% of the country's greenhouse gas emissions, with road transport being the most carbon-intensive. Railways, in contrast, offer a far more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly mode of transport, emitting significantly less CO₂ per passenger-kilometer than cars, buses, or planes. Plans like the National Rail Plan aim to raise rail's freight share to 45% by 2030, aided by Dedicated Freight Corridors. Urban metro systems in cities like Delhi and Mumbai have already helped reduce road congestion and pollution. Shifting more freight and passengers to rail could also open up opportunities for earning carbon credits, which could help fund further green infrastructure. Achieving this shift, however, requires robust policy support and sustained investment
Over the years, European Union (EU) is switching over to rail transport to reduce carbon and greenhouse gas emissions

1. EU Climate Goals and the European Green Deal
The European Green Deal (2019) commits the EU to become climate neutral by 2050.
Transport accounts for about 25% of the EU’s total greenhouse gas emissions, with road and aviation being major contributors.
Rail is responsible for less than 0.5% of transport-related GHG emissions in the EU.

2. Rail as a Sustainable Transport Mode
Rail is the most energy-efficient mode of land transport.
Around 75% of EU rail lines are already electrified, and electricity is increasingly derived from renewable sources.
Shifting freight and passenger transport from road and air to rail is seen as a key strategy to reduce emissions.



3. EU Policy and Funding Support
The Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy (2020) aims to double high-speed rail traffic by 2030 and triple it by 2050.
The EU has dedicated substantial funding through programs like:
Connecting Europe Facility (CEF)
TEN-T (Trans-European Transport Network)
Recovery and Resilience Facility
Year of Rail (2021) campaign promoted rail as a sustainable transport solution.



4. Investment in Cross-border and High-Speed Rail
Efforts are underway to enhance cross-border rail connectivity, reduce travel times, and improve rail infrastructure across Europe.
Emphasis on night trains and high-speed rail networks to compete with short-haul flights.