India Unveils Its First Hydrogen-Powered Train: Route Details, Launch Date, and Unique Features
India’s first hydrogen train has been officially announced by Indian Railways. The hydrogen-powered train is set to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on July 17, alongside several other infrastructure projects in Haryana, as confirmed by state minister Krishan Kumar Bedi. This initiative aligns with Indian Railways’ commitment to technological innovation and environmentally sustainable transportation, supporting the country’s clean energy goals and net-zero carbon emissions.
India’s first hydrogen train: Route, speed
The new 10-coach Hydrogen Fuel Cell-based trainset will operate on the dedicated Jind-Sonipat section under Northern Railway. It is expected to commence operations shortly, with a maximum speed of 75 km/h, driven by a 1,200 KW hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system. Designed and developed entirely in India, this train is currently the world’s longest hydrogen-powered train featuring 10 coaches.
The Jind-Sonipat route has been selected as the pilot corridor for this project. To facilitate operations, an indigenous hydrogen storage and refueling facility has been established at Jind. The Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) has granted the necessary license for the storage and dispensing of compressed hydrogen gas at this facility. The refueling infrastructure includes a hydrogen compression system, along with essential technical support and spare components to ensure reliable operations. Safety measures, such as hydrogen leak detectors and flame detectors, will be implemented throughout the hydrogen production, storage, and dispensing facility.
How does hydrogen train technology work?
Hydrogen fuel cell technology generates electricity through a chemical reaction involving hydrogen, producing only water vapor as a by-product. This makes it a cleaner alternative to traditional traction systems that depend on fossil fuels. Globally, hydrogen-powered rail transport is gaining traction as a sustainable mobility option. With this initiative, India joins a select group of countries, including Germany, Japan, China, and the United States, that are advancing hydrogen-based rail transportation.
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