General Awareness

ENVIRONMENT - January 2016

Jan 2016

Jul 23, 2026

Indian Railways electrification reaches 99.6% of broad-gauge network

As of July 2026, Indian Railways had electrified about 99.6 percent of its broad-gauge network, placing the country second among large railway systems behind Switzerland. Between 2014 and 2026, roughly 48,072 route kilometres were electrified. The achievement supports India’s climate and mobility goals by reducing dependence on fossil fuels and enabling faster, more reliable services. Ongoing electrification work continues on remaining sections and in freight corridors to further enhance railway efficiency and sustainability across passenger and goods networks.

99.6% of broad-gauge routes electrified by July 2026.
Total electrified kilometres since 2014: about 48,072.
India ranks second after Switzerland among large rail systems.
Electrification improves efficiency and reduces emissions.

Jul 20, 2026

India commissions geothermal wells in Ladakh’s Puga Valley

India commissioned its first geothermal wells in the Puga Valley, Ladakh, during July 2026. The project includes two deep wells, with initial drilling reaching around 1,000 metres. The geothermal initiative aims to demonstrate renewable power potential and study the Himalayan region’s geothermal resources. Officials say the pilot supports India’s shift toward diversified energy sources and clean energy, contributing to energy security and reduced emissions. This development forms part of broader renewable energy strategies and informs future, larger deployments if successful.

Location: Puga Valley, Ladakh
Depth: ~1,000 metres for two wells
Project aim: pilot geothermal power, resource study
Energy goal: diversify renewables, reduce emissions
Strategic significance: informs future expansion

Jul 14, 2026

Ahmedabad plants 3.61 lakh saplings in one hour using Miyawaki method

Ahmedabad, Gujarat, 14 July 2026 — The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation organised a mass tree-planting drive in Bhadaj to set a Guinness World Record by planting 3.61 lakh saplings within one hour. The initiative used the Miyawaki method to create a dense green cover spanning about 76,000 square metres, aiming to boost biodiversity and city cooling. Thousands of volunteers joined municipal workers and forest officials in the effort, which sought to demonstrate urban afforestation at scale. City leaders highlighted the project as part of ongoing climate resilience and sustainable development plans. Experts noted that Miyawaki forests grow faster and provide quicker ecological gains in limited urban spaces. Authorities plan similar campaigns in other wards.

3.61 lakh saplings planted within one hour
Miyawaki method used to develop 76,000 sq m green cover
Organised by Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation
Aims to enhance urban biodiversity and cooling
Volunteers, staff, and officials participated
Guinness World Record attempt

Jul 13, 2026

Uttar Pradesh launches Vriksharopan Maha Yagya for mass tree planting

In July 2026, Uttar Pradesh launched the statewide Vriksharopan Maha Yagya, aiming to plant 35 crore saplings in a single day. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated the program near the Link Expressway in Gorakhpur. The drive is part of the national Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam initiative, which promotes tree cover and environmental awareness. Officials expect broad participation from local communities, schools and volunteers. If successful, the event could boost green cover and contribute to climate goals while highlighting youth and citizen involvement in environmental action across the state.

Statewide campaign launched in July 2026 by Uttar Pradesh
Target to plant 35 crore saplings in a single day
Inaugurated by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath near Gorakhpur
Part of the national Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam initiative
Aims to increase tree cover and environmental awareness
Encourages participation from communities and schools

Jul 12, 2026

Monsoon rainfall deficit narrows to 24% in July 2026

Monsoon rainfall deficit in July 2026 narrowed to 24 percent, compared with 33 percent in June, according to the government and weather agencies monitoring the southwest monsoon. Officials attributed the improvement to persistent rainfall in several states and better moisture conditions, though El Niño continues to influence rainfall patterns in parts of the country. The India Meteorological Department and the Ministry of Earth Sciences stress the need for continued preparedness, including water management, crop planning, and drought-relief readiness, particularly in cropping zones that remain drier than average. Farmers are encouraged to adopt moisture-conserving practices and efficient irrigation to mitigate potential crop stress.

Monsoon deficit narrowed to 24% in July 2026
June deficit stood at 33%; improvement noted
El Niño continues to influence certain regions
MoES and IMD urge continued preparedness
Farmers urged to use moisture-saving practices

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