India’s First Hydrogen Train is Coming Soon

Indian Railways has already launched the prestigious Vande Bharat trains, and it is now set to introduce the Vande Bharat Metro, along with sleeper versions. In addition, Indian Railways is shifting its focus to hydrogen-powered trains. For the first time, India is bringing hydrogen trains into operation. The features and specifications of this train were revealed by the Union Railway Minister.

Currently, hydrogen trains worldwide have engines that produce between 500 to 600 horsepower. However, the hydrogen train developed by Indian Railways has the capacity to produce up to 1200 horsepower. Moreover, the train is set to be the longest in the world, as announced by Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in the Rajya Sabha. The train is not only longer but also technologically advanced.

India’s first hydrogen train is being developed using indigenous technology. The hydrogen fuel cells are being retrofitted onto diesel-electric multiple unit (DEMU) coaches. The Railway Research Design and Standards Organization (RDSO) has prepared the specifications. The Minister provided this information in response to a question raised by MP Ajit Kumar Bhuyan in the Rajya Sabha.

An integrated system for hydrogen production, storage, and distribution has been designed to refuel the train. The necessary approvals for this setup have been sought from the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organization (PESO). This initiative reflects Indian Railways' significant efforts to promote clean energy and green energy.

So far, only four countries have launched hydrogen trains: Germany, France, Sweden, and China. India will be the fifth country to join this list. However, the hydrogen trains developed by India are set to outperform those of other countries, as they can produce up to 1200 horsepower, doubling the power of the current hydrogen trains in use elsewhere.

Currently, the hydrogen train is being developed at the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai.