India's First Hydrogen Train Passes Final Trial; Has A New Era for Indian Railways Begun
New Delhi: With the successful completion of the final trial run of the country's first hydrogen-powered train between Delhi and Jind (Haryana) on Friday, Indian Railways has taken another step towards initiating eco-friendly rail travel. This train represents a significant shift towards green mobility, as it emits only water vapor instead of smoke or harmful pollutants.
The trial was conducted at a maximum speed of 120 km/h. Earlier tests between Sonipat and Jind had evaluated critical safety and performance parameters, such as emergency braking and vibration levels. Once operational for regular passenger service, the train will run at a maximum speed of 75 km/h.
The train utilizes hydrogen fuel cell technology, wherein hydrogen combines with oxygen from the air to generate the electricity that powers the train. Offering zero carbon emissions, it serves as a cleaner alternative to traditional diesel trains.
This 10-coach train is equipped with two high-power driving power cars. It is being hailed as the world's longest and most powerful hydrogen train on a broad-gauge network. A green hydrogen production and refueling facility has been established in Jind, while maintenance will be carried out at the Shakur Basti depot in Delhi.
This successful trial has placed India among the select group of nations developing hydrogen-powered rail transport and has also bolstered Indian Railways' long-term goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030.