HYDERABAD, NOV 1 : The South Central Railway (SCR) Headquarters Administrative Building, Rail Nilayam, has been honored with the prestigious Gold Rating for Green Existing Buildings by the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC).

The building had previously achieved a Gold Rating and has now been recertified with the same Gold Rating as it has consistently met all the prescribed criteria. This certification is valid for three years from July 2023, a SCR statement said on Wednesday.

The IGBC Gold Rating was granted to the building for its comprehensive adoption of various water conservation and saving measures. These measures include wastewater treatment, rainwater harvesting, solid waste management, eco-friendly landscaping, electrical energy conservation and generation, occupant comfort, building operations and maintenance, among others.

The IGBC, in collaboration with the Environment Directorate of Indian Railways, has developed the Green Railway Stations Rating system to promote the adoption of green concepts, reduce adverse environmental impacts resulting from station operation and maintenance, and enhance the overall commuter experience.

This rating system addresses national priorities such as water conservation, waste management, energy efficiency, reduced fossil fuel consumption, reduced dependence on virgin materials, and the health and well-being of occupants.

The evaluation of the Rail Nilayam building was based on six key modules, including sustainable station facilities, health, hygiene, and sanitation, energy efficiency, water efficiency, smart and green initiatives, as well as innovation and development. The building secured the required points in these areas, including 12 points for waste collection and disposal, 20 points for water conservation, 24 points for energy efficiency, 12 points for health and comfort, and 8 points for innovative concepts, totaling 76 points. This achievement highlights Rail Nilayam’s consistent commitment to green practices and its subsequent recertification with a Gold Rating.

Arun Kumar Jain, General Manager of SCR, congratulated the officials of the Hyderabad Division and SCR Headquarters for their effective and efficient maintenance of green practices, which led to the IGBC Gold Rating. He emphasized the importance of continued efforts to contribute to a greener environment and urged staff and officers to prioritize environmental practices, aiming for the highest rating in the future.(UNI