New Delhi: Indian Railways has completed the manufacturing of India’s first hydrogen train, marking a significant milestone in the country’s shift towards sustainable and alternative energy-powered transportation.
The hydrogen train is being introduced on a pilot basis in accordance with specifications formulated by the Research, Design and Standards Organization (RDSO).
The hydrogen train project is supported by a dedicated green hydrogen production plant being established at Jind.
The facility will produce hydrogen through the electrolysis process, a key component of green hydrogen generation, ensuring an environmentally sustainable fuel supply for the train-set.
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Hydrogen Train Showcases Atmanirbhar Bharat Vision
Designed and developed entirely in India, the hydrogen train highlights Indian Railways’ commitment to the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
At present, it stands as the world’s longest hydrogen-powered train-set with 10 coaches and the most powerful on the broad-gauge platform, delivering a total power output of 2400 kW.
The train-set comprises two driving power cars, each with a capacity of 1200 kW, along with eight passenger coaches. With zero carbon dioxide emissions and water vapour as the only emission, the hydrogen train represents a major step towards cleaner rail mobility.
Hydrogen Train Marks Entry into Next-Generation Rail Fuel Technology
The project involved end-to-end development, beginning from conceptual design to prototype manufacturing and the first-time implementation of hydrogen traction technology within Indian Railways.
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As the hydrogen train and its associated infrastructure are being developed on a pilot basis, cost comparisons with conventional traction systems are not considered appropriate at this stage.
The initiative reinforces Indian Railways’ long-term commitment to advancing alternative fuel technologies and promoting sustainable rail travel, contributing to a greener future for India’s transportation sector.
The information was provided by Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, in a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha.
