Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to launch the service from Jind railway station in Haryana on July 17. “Currently, we have confirmation from the PMO that Prime Minister Modi will inaugurate the hydrogen train from Jind on July 17,” a senior railway official informed PTI.
With this launch, India will join nations like Germany, Japan, China, and the United States that are adopting hydrogen-powered rail technology for greener transit.
Route and Operations
The hydrogen train will run on the Jind-Sonipat section under Northern Railway, covering an 89-km journey one way. The service will operate two round trips daily, accumulating a total of 356 km each day.
How the Train Works
In contrast to diesel trains, the hydrogen train produces electricity via hydrogen fuel cells, which merge hydrogen and oxygen to generate power. This process releases only water vapor, making it an eco-friendly alternative that diminishes carbon emissions.
Features and Speed
The 10-coach train has been designed by retrofitting a Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU), featuring two driving power cars and eight passenger coaches. It provides 682 seats and can accommodate around 2,600 passengers. While built for a maximum speed of 110 kmph, the train will initially operate at 75 kmph on the Jind-Sonipat route.
“Under maximum passenger load and operational conditions, it will consume roughly 300 kg of hydrogen daily. The train is engineered to safely reach a maximum speed of 110 kmph; however, its operational speed on the Jind-Sonipat route will be 75 kmph,” according to railway officials.
Built in India
The Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai constructed the train, while system integration was managed by Hyderabad-based Medha Servo Drives. The hydrogen fuel-cell stacks were provided by Canada’s Ballard Power Systems.
Hydrogen Infrastructure
To facilitate the project, Indian Railways has established a specialized hydrogen production, storage, and refueling facility at Jind. This facility can generate 420-430 kg of hydrogen daily and store up to 3,000 kg.
The train is additionally equipped with hydrogen leak and flame detection systems, and the facility has obtained safety clearance from the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO).
Also Read: Explained: Why countries are betting big on hydrogen fuel
(Edited by : Asmita Pant)
