India’s first hydrogen-powered train, announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Haryana’s Jind district on Friday, was designed, engineered and integrated using indigenous technology, showcasing the country’s growing capabilities in advanced railway engineering.
The 10-car train, powered by a 3,200-horsepower propulsion system, is among the tallest and most powerful hydrogen-powered passenger trains in the world, marking an important step toward cleaner rail transportation, according to the company. PTI a report.
The wide gauge train is among the longest hydrogen-powered passenger trains in the world and reflects the success of the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives. Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to travel by train from Jind to Bandu Pindara station, accompanied by about 200 students.
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What are the special features of hydrogen powered train?
The train features a 10-car configuration, making it among the longest hydrogen-powered passenger trains developed to date. Powered by a 3,200 horsepower propulsion system, it is among the most powerful hydrogen-powered train sets in the world.
Addressing a public gathering in Jind after getting off the train, Modi said hydrogen train technology has only emerged globally in the last seven to eight years and is currently operational in only three or four countries.
“Hydrogen trains have only recently arrived on the global stage. They came into existence only seven or eight years ago. Currently, only three or four countries have the capacity to operate hydrogen trains, and even in those countries, the technology is still in its nascent stage. However, hearing about India’s hydrogen train capabilities will fill you and every Indian with pride,” the Prime Minister said.
He said that the hydrogen train that started from Jind has a 3,200 horsepower propulsion system, making it the most powerful hydrogen-powered train in the world, adding that it is also the longest hydrogen-powered train in India.
“The hydrogen train starting from Jind is the most powerful hydrogen train in the world. This train has a power of 3,200 horsepower and is not only the most powerful hydrogen train in India, it is also the longest hydrogen train,” Modi said.
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Hydrogen fuel cell technology, eliminating emissions and more
Designed in a stunning sky blue and white colours, the train is powered by hydrogen fuel cell technology, which converts hydrogen into electricity to propel the train.
The process produces only water vapor as a byproduct, resulting in zero carbon emissions during operation.
Compared to diesel trains, hydrogen-powered trains eliminate exhaust emissions, reduce dependence on fossil fuels and fuel imports, and operate at much lower noise levels.
Unlike conventional electric trains, they do not require ongoing overhead electrification infrastructure, as the on-board electricity is generated by hydrogen fuel cells, making them a clean and efficient alternative.
The use of green hydrogen also reduces dependence on electricity generated from fossil fuel-based thermal power plants, supporting India’s transition to sustainable transportation.
The 89-kilometre journey between Jind and Sonipat will be completed in about two hours, with the train stopping at 12 intermediate stations.
