In a significant step toward green transportation, Indian Railways has successfully conducted a trial of its first hydrogen-powered coach at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai earlier this week. This marks a major milestone in India’s ambition to roll out its first hydrogen-fueled train, a rare initiative globally, as most hydrogen train projects worldwide are still in the experimental stage.
A Big Step Towards Green Rail Travel
This hydrogen-powered project is part of Indian Railways’ broader plan to cut down on greenhouse gas emissions and shift towards cleaner and renewable energy sources. Hydrogen, known for being a zero-emission fuel, offers a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels, supporting the government’s clean energy mission.
According to officials, the project is in its final phase, with comprehensive testing of systems underway before the hydrogen-powered train begins commercial operations.
Project Overview: Hydrogen Train in India
The ambitious project was launched by the Northern Railway zone during 2020-21 and includes two main components:
- Converting diesel coaches to hydrogen-powered ones
Two conventional 1600 HorsePower (HP) diesel power cars are being transformed into hydrogen fuel cell-based propulsion systems. - Setting up a hydrogen fuelling and storage station
A dedicated hydrogen facility is being developed at Jind station in Haryana, which will fuel the hydrogen-powered trains.
The total estimated cost of the project is Rs. 136 crore. All primary design and technical validation work is being carried out by the Railways’ Research Design & Standards Organisation (RDSO).
Hydrogen Coach Design and Capacity
A senior Railway Ministry official stated that the project aims to convert a 10-coach Diesel-Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) into a hydrogen-powered unit. The modified train will include:
- Two 1600 HP power cars
- A total capacity of over 2,600 passengers
- Operation on a 356 km round-trip route between Jind and Sonepat (Haryana)
This will make it India’s first hydrogen-powered multiple unit (HPMU) and position the nation alongside pioneers like Germany, where such technology is already in limited commercial use.
Hydrogen Fueling Facility at Jind
The hydrogen refueling facility being built at Jind station is a key part of the project. It will have a total storage capacity of 3,000 kg of hydrogen, split as follows:
- 2,320 kg at low pressure
- 680 kg at high pressure
The facility will be built and operated under the safety guidelines of Petroleum & Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO), which functions under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).
To ensure smooth operations, Northern Railway is also working on the necessary infrastructure, including:
- Dedicated power supply
- Internal roads
- Firefighting water tank and other essential facilities
What This Means for India
If successful, this hydrogen-powered train project will position Indian Railways as a global leader in clean rail transportation. With increasing focus on green mobility, this initiative could pave the way for a larger rollout of hydrogen-based trains across the country in the coming years.
Looking for the India latest news, tech, automobiles, and travel tips? Head over to https://innovativeschools.in/ for top stories, smart insights, and everything you need—all in one place.