New Delhi: Indian Railways is set to launch the country's first indigenously developed hydrogen fuel cell-powered train on July 17, marking a major milestone in its transition towards clean and sustainable rail transportation.
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The pilot project, developed entirely in India in line with technical specifications approved by the Research, Design & Standards Organisation (RDSO), will operate on the Jind-Sonipat section of Northern Railway. The initiative is aimed at demonstrating the viability of hydrogen-powered mobility while supporting the National Green Hydrogen Mission and India's net-zero emission goals.
The 10-coach hydrogen-powered train is equipped with a 1,200 kW hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system and has a passenger carrying capacity of around 2,600. While its maximum operational speed has been approved at 75 kmph, the train has been designed for speeds of up to 110 kmph. It will connect Jind Junction and Sonipat via Gohana Junction, serving several intermediate stations along the route.
Unlike conventional diesel locomotives, the train generates electricity onboard through hydrogen fuel cell technology. The Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) system produces electricity by combining hydrogen and oxygen, emitting only water vapour and heat as by-products, making it one of the cleanest propulsion technologies available for rail transport.
To support the project, Indian Railways has established the country's largest railway hydrogen storage and refuelling facility at Jind, Haryana. The indigenous facility can store nearly 3,000 kg of hydrogen and has received the necessary licence from the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO). The infrastructure has been developed in accordance with international standards, including NFPA-2 and ISO 19880, and has undergone an independent safety assessment by TÜV SÜD, Germany.
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The train comprises two Hydrogen Driving Power Cars (DPCs) and eight trailer coaches. Each power car houses hydrogen fuel cells, lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries and hydrogen storage cylinders. The refuelling facility is equipped with hydrogen compression systems, standby compressors, technical support infrastructure and critical spare parts to ensure uninterrupted operations.
Indian Railways has also put in place a comprehensive operational and safety framework for the pilot project. Hydrogen leak detectors, flame detection systems, continuous ventilation, automatic hydrogen shut-off mechanisms, real-time system monitoring and emergency operating modes have been incorporated to ensure safe operations. The maintenance facility at Shakurbasti in Delhi has been prepared for servicing the hydrogen train, while trained personnel and technical staff will oversee operations during the initial phase.
With the launch, India joins a select group of countries, including Germany, Japan, China and the United States, that are exploring hydrogen-powered rail transportation. Indian Railways said the pilot project will provide valuable operational experience, validate hydrogen rail technology under Indian conditions and lay the foundation for wider adoption of hydrogen-powered trains in the future.
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