Indian Railways has taken a big step by successfully testing the first hydrogen-powered train coach in the country. This test was conducted at the Integrated Coach Factory (ICF) located in Chennai. The special thing is that this coach is not new at all, but was earlier part of the diesel-powered DEMU train, which has now been converted into an environmentally friendly hydrogen-powered coach.
Does not produce any smoke
The biggest feature of the train is that it does not produce any smoke or cause pollution. The train runs only on hydrogen gas and the only element released by it into the atmosphere is water vapour. That is, neither any harmful gas, nor pollution. This is like a boon for the environment.
A smart and clean technology called Hydrogen Fuel Cell System has been used in this train. There are two main things in it:
Hydrogen gas is stored in safe tanks in the train
Oxygen is taken from the atmosphere.
The chemical union of these two generates electricity which is used to run the train's motor. Also, it produces only heat and steam.
Efficient Energy Management
The train also has a battery system that helps according to the power demand
When the train needs more power, like on a climb, the battery helps.
When the need is less, the fuel cell recharges the battery.
Trend of hydrogen trains in the world
India has now joined the select countries where hydrogen trains are being successfully used. Earlier, Germany and France have adopted this technology. India is also moving fast on that path and is planning to make more hydrogen trains in the future.
This technology is very important for India because India has set a target of net-zero carbon emissions by 2070. In such a situation, hydrogen trains will prove to be very important in achieving this mission. These are not only better for the environment but also use a technology that will take the railways towards a clean, modern and sustainable future.