India Launches Its First Hydrogen-Powered Train in Haryana
Inauguration of India's First Hydrogen Train
The prime minister waved as the train, which also had many school children onboard, chugged off from the Jind railway station. (Photo:PIB)
Jind (Haryana) July 17: On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated India's inaugural hydrogen-powered train, which will operate between Jind and Sonipat in Haryana.
This milestone places India among a select few nations with operational hydrogen trains, representing a significant advancement towards cleaner and more sustainable transportation in the railway sector.
The train will cover the 89-kilometer route in approximately two hours, making stops at 12 stations along the way.
Attendees at the flag-off ceremony included Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Haryana Governor Ashim Kumar Ghosh, and Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini.
As the train departed from Jind railway station, the Prime Minister waved to the crowd, which included many school children onboard.
Developed using indigenous technology, the train showcases India's growing expertise in advanced railway engineering.
Featuring a vibrant sky-blue and white design, the train operates on hydrogen fuel cell technology, which generates electricity from hydrogen to power the train.
This process results in only water vapor as a by-product, ensuring zero carbon emissions during its operation.
In contrast to diesel trains, hydrogen trains eliminate tailpipe emissions, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and operate with significantly lower noise levels.
Unlike traditional electric trains, these do not need continuous overhead electrification, as they generate electricity onboard through hydrogen fuel cells, making them a clean and efficient alternative.
The adoption of green hydrogen further diminishes reliance on electricity produced from fossil fuel-based thermal power plants, aiding India's shift towards sustainable transportation.
India's hydrogen train boasts a 10-coach configuration, making it one of the longest hydrogen-powered passenger trains developed to date.
With a powerful 3,200 HP propulsion system, it ranks among the most robust hydrogen-powered trainsets currently in operation.