New Delhi: In a major step toward eco-friendly transportation, India has unveiled its first hydrogen-powered train, which has officially commenced trial runs on the 89-kilometer Jind-Sonipat route in Haryana. This pioneering move marks a significant milestone in the country’s ongoing efforts to embrace greener modes of transportation.
According to a senior official from Indian Railways, the initial trial runs have been largely successful. However, some adjustments are required to optimize the hydrogen fuel cell capacity, ensuring the train can fully support its intended load-carrying capabilities. These modifications are expected to take an additional two to three months, during which further testing will be conducted before the train can begin commercial operations.
This delay may affect the previously anticipated timeline for the hydrogen-powered train’s launch on the historic Kalka-Shimla heritage route, which was initially set for December 2024. Technical challenges have emerged during testing, and sources suggest the launch could now be pushed to mid-2025.
The hydrogen-powered train, manufactured by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai, is a significant leap forward in India’s sustainability goals. The train can reach speeds of up to 110 km/h and features a passenger coach along with two coaches designed specifically for hydrogen storage. With a power output of 1,200 horsepower, the train can accommodate up to 2,638 passengers at a time.
What sets this hydrogen train apart from its global counterparts is its engine power. While most hydrogen trains worldwide are equipped with engines ranging between 500 and 600 horsepower, India’s hydrogen-powered locomotive boasts a world-record 1,200 horsepower engine, positioning it as the most powerful hydrogen train in the world.
As part of its ambitious green transport initiative, the Ministry of Railways has allocated a significant budget of Rs 2,800 crore for the construction of hydrogen fuel cell-based trains. A total of 35 such trains are planned for development, with the first hydrogen-powered 8-coach train expected to become one of the longest of its kind, operating at speeds of 110 km/h.
This initiative aligns with India’s broader environmental objectives, aiming to drastically cut carbon emissions and achieve net-zero emissions by 2030. The introduction of hydrogen-powered trains is a critical component of the government’s strategy to reduce its carbon footprint while modernizing the country’s rail infrastructure.
Indian Railways has also outlined plans to deploy 35 hydrogen-powered trains on heritage and hilly routes under a dedicated project called “Hydrogen for Heritage.” The current year’s budget includes Rs 2,800 crore for the project, with an additional Rs 600 crore allocated for the development of hydrogen infrastructure along these routes.
India’s entry into the hydrogen-powered rail sector not only places it among global leaders in sustainable transport but also reinforces its commitment to combating climate change. Once the trial phase is complete, Indian Railways plans to integrate these hydrogen-powered trains into regular service, marking a significant step toward achieving the nation’s long-term environmental goals.
This breakthrough represents a major leap forward in India’s green transportation efforts, signaling a future where hydrogen-powered locomotives play a vital role in reducing emissions and building a sustainable, low-carbon future.
