Demonstrating Atmanirbhar Bharat, zero CO2 emissions: Why manufacture of India’s first hydrogen-powered train-set is a big milestone
Indian Railways has completed its first hydrogen-powered train-set, marking a significant leap in next-generation fuel technology. This 10-coach, 2,400 kW broad-gauge train, developed in India, promises zero CO₂ emissions. A pilot project, it showcases India's commitment to green hydrogen production and a sustainable future for the transportation sector, aligning with Atmanirbhar Bharat.
New Delhi: The manufacturing of India’s first hydrogen-powered Train-set has been completed. It is a huge leap towards development of next generation fuel technology in Indian Railways.
A hydrogen plant has been proposed in Jind to supply fuel for this Train-set. At the plant, hydrogen will be produced through electrolysis, a crucial process in green hydrogen production.
Indian Railways has taken up a state-of-the-art project for running of its first hydrogen train, on pilot basis, as per specifications framed by the Research, Design & Standards Organization (RDSO) to demonstrate the use of hydrogen powered train technology in Railways.
Indian Railways has taken up a state-of-the-art project for running its first hydrogen train, on a pilot basis, as per specifications framed by the Research, Design & Standards Organisation (RDSO) to demonstrate the use of hydrogen-powered train technology in Railways. This information was given by the Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting and Electronics & Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha on Wednesday.
What are the key features of Hydrogen train-set
The Train-set has been designed and developed in India, showcasing Indian Railways’ commitment to Atmanirbhar Bharat. Currently, it is the world’s longest broad-gauge hydrogen Train-set, having 10 coaches, and the most powerful, generating 2,400 kW.
The Train-set has two Driving Power Cars (DPCs) of 1,200 kW each, totalling 2,400 kW along with eight passenger cars. It will produce zero CO₂ emissions, and the only emission will be water vapour.
What does the project involve?
This project involved designing from first stages, prototype manufacturing and first-time development of hydrogen traction technology in Indian Railways. As the Hydrogen Train-set and its infrastructure have been developed on a pilot basis, direct comparison of the cost of hydrogen-fuelled trains with established traction systems at this stage would not present a fair cost comparison, the minister said.
The project underlines Indian Railways’ commitment to advancing alternative energy-powered train travel, which will pave the way for a cleaner and greener future for the transportation sector of the country.