Trials of India’s first hydrogen train will start between Jind and Sonipat stations

The nation’s first hydrogen-powered train is scheduled to make its trial run between the railway stations of Jind and Sonipat in Haryana shortly, marking a major milestone for Indian Railways.The Research, Design, and Standard Organization (RDSO) is responsible for the train’s design. With this accomplishment, India will become one of the few countries testing hydrogen as a train fuel. This project is the first significant attempt in this field in history.

 The first hydrogen-powered train in India has finally been designed. The final trial is anticipated to occur in the first three months of 2025 following completion of the required procedures. The design was created by the RDSO, a significant Indian Railways division, with an emphasis on cutting-edge practicality and contemporary features.

Since the introduction of the finalized design in December 2021, the project has been moving forward. The first quarter of the upcoming year could see the start of operations. Features of the train: 8 carriages, 2,638 passengers.

The RDSO-designed hydrogen-powered train, which has not yet been given a name, features eight passenger coaches and can accommodate 2,638 passengers on a single trip. The maximum speed that the train can achieve is 110 kmph. In addition to housing integrated fuel cell converters, batteries, and air reservoirs, three of the coaches will be used for the storage of hydrogen cylinders.The hydrogen-powered fuel produces no emissions at all, with the sole byproduct being water vapor. Indian Railways wants to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2030, and this fits with that goal.  Compared to conventional diesel or coal-powered trains, the train uses less energy and is quieter. Because of this, it is the perfect option for a more environmentally friendly future and will also lessen noise pollution.

Long-term cost-effectiveness is anticipated for hydrogen trains, which are estimated to cost about Rs 80 crore. Operating costs will be further decreased as production increases and fuel prices fall, making hydrogen fuel a cost-effective and sustainable choice.  Hydrogen-powered trains don’t need electrified rails like other non-diesel trains do. As a result, hydrogen trains are a preferable choice for non-electrified routes, particularly in rural and impoverished areas, as the expensive expense of constructing electrified infrastructure is eliminated.

Because of its existing infrastructure and mild train traffic, Indian Railways chose the Jind-Sonipat route in Haryana for the hydrogen-powered train’s testing. According to railway experts, these elements will aid in evaluating the train’s operational capability, safety, and performance under actual circumstances.