Yes! India is set to launch a new era of fuel-powered trains, with a powerful hydrogen-powered train expected to run on Indian tracks after June 2025. The Ministry of Railways is working at full speed to unveil the country’s first hydrogen-powered train. However, Hydrogen fuel cell train was to hit the track before June, technical snag while testing the vehicle made its launch delayed till June. The government had, in 2023-24, targeted to have the train up and running by December 2024.
Hydrogen Train Production
The Chennai-based Integral Coach Factory (ICF) is manufacturing India’s first hydrogen train. A key advantage of hydrogen-powered trains is their contribution to green transportation technology. It will promote zero carbon emissions as a clean energy source. The train will run using fuel cells, which generate electricity by combining hydrogen and oxygen. The byproduct released after the combustion will only be water vapour.
While most countries have built hydrogen trains with capacities ranging from 500 to 600 horsepower (HP), India has achieved a breakthrough. The country created an engine with a capacity of staggering 1,200 horsepower (HP). This is which is more than double the strength of similar hydrogen trains operating in other countries.
First Hydrogen Train
India’s first hydrogen train is poised to be one of the longest and most powerful in the world. Beyond the train itself, the project also includes the development of a state-of-the-art hydrogen refueling infrastructure. This facility will feature an integrated setup for hydrogen production, storage, and distribution. Which will ensure seamless operations and advancing India’s green transportation goals.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has said that the India’s hydrogen train will make history. It will be the world’s longest (10 coaches) and most powerful (2400 kW) hydrogen-powered train. The train will be fully designed and developed in India. The project spearheaded by Indian Railways, with specifications outlined by the Research, Design & Standards Organization (RDSO). The initiative aims to showcase the potential of hydrogen-powered trains in revolutionizing sustainable rail transport.
Northern Railway’s Delhi Division will be building India’s first hydrogen train. The Hydrogen fueled train is expected to operate on the 89-km-long Jind-Sonipat route. This marks a significant step towards sustainable and eco-friendly rail travel in the country.
Budget For The Project
The Ministry of Railways had allocated Rs 2,800 crore in 2023-24 to develop a fleet of 35 hydrogen fuel cell-based trains as part of India’s broader vision for clean energy transportation.
