Hydrogen-Powered Train
Prelims:
Science
& Technology, Environment & Ecology
Mains:
GS
Paper III – Science & Technology, Environment, Infrastructure, Energy
Current relevance:
India's first indigenously developed
hydrogen fuel cell-powered train was inaugurated on 17 July 2026 and is set to
commence operations on the Jind–Sonipat section of Northern Railway.
Highlights:
About Hydrogen-Powered Train:
1. It is a railway train that uses
hydrogen fuel cells to generate electricity onboard, which powers its
electric traction motors instead of diesel.
2. The train is powered by a 1200 kW
hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system, enabling clean and efficient operation.
3. It has an approved maximum operating speed
of 75 kmph and a design speed of 110 kmph.
4.
Working
Principle:
i.
Hydrogen
stored onboard reacts with oxygen from the atmosphere inside a Proton
Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) to generate electricity.
ii.
The
electricity produced by the fuel cell powers the train's electric
traction motors, enabling smooth and efficient operation.
iii.
The
process emits only water vapour and heat as by-products, producing zero
carbon dioxide emissions at the point of use.
5.
Operational
Readiness:
i.
Indian
Railways has established comprehensive standard operating procedures (SOPs),
regular safety audits, and operational protocols for safe hydrogen train
operations.
ii.
The
hydrogen refuelling system will be monitored round the clock (24×7)
to ensure safe, reliable, and uninterrupted operations.
iii.
Critical
operations will be managed by trained and certified personnel.
6.
Safety
Features:
i.
Hydrogen
leak and flame detection systems have been installed at hydrogen production, storage, and refuelling
facilities for continuous monitoring.
ii.
Safety
sensors are inspected
and maintained regularly to ensure reliable performance and early detection
of any hazards.
iii.
The
train is equipped with an automatic safety mechanism that immediately
shuts off the hydrogen supply if heat, flame, smoke, or any abnormal condition
is detected.
7.
Paving
the Way for Green Railways:
It supports the National
Green Hydrogen Mission, advances India's net-zero goals, and lays
the foundation for a cleaner, more resilient, and sustainable railway system.
Source: PIB - https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleaseDetail.aspx?PRID=2285268®=48&lang=1