What is a hydrogen-fuelled train?

A hydrogen-fuelled train uses a fuel cell system to generate electricity by combining hydrogen and oxygen, emitting only water and steam as by-products.

When will India’s first hydrogen-powered train be launched?

The trial run for India's first hydrogen-powered train is set to commence in December 2024.

What are the key benefits of hydrogen trains over diesel trains?

Hydrogen trains are 60% quieter, emit no harmful pollutants, and have the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

What routes will the first hydrogen train operate on?

The initial rollout will occur on the 90-kilometre Jind-Sonipat route in Haryana, with plans for expansion to iconic railways like the Darjeeling Himalayan and Kalka-Shimla lines.

How far can the hydrogen train travel between charges?

The hydrogen train can travel up to 1000 km on a single charge, making it highly efficient for long-distance routes.

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Indian Railways To Launch Hydrogen-Powered Train: An Eco-Friendly Shift In Travel

Komal Bajpai

Author

Updated: 09-04-2025 at 10:18 AM

India’s railways are getting ready to pave a new chapter of eco-friendly transport by inaugurating the nation’s first-ever hydrogen-fuel train. This train riding on water-powered hydrogen technology will cut emissions and noise and channel India into a new generation of clean rail transport.

NDA’s Shift Towards Clear Energy In Railways

In the past, Indian Railways utilised equipment such as steam, coal, and diesel engines, all of which are considered pollutants. Today's electric trains still require electricity, with coal being the most common source. Thus, with the new development of the hydrogen-powered train, India’s railways take the first step towards a more environmentally friendly option, decreasing emissions.

How does The Hydrogen Train work?

The hydrogen train will employ a fuel cell system that will mix hydrogen and oxygen to produce electricity, with steam and water being the only outputs. This is once again a call to revolutionise the concept of power and energy in India's train system by utilising the water-based energy currently available in the train.

Official Trial Launch In December 2024

The pilot project will begin the trial of a hydrogen-powered train in December 2024. The new train is expected to consume approximately 40,000 litres of water per hour, and it will also feature individual water reserves specifically designed for its operation.

Proposed Expansion All Over India

The Indian Railways are planning to add 35 hydrogen-powered trains for its various circuits in India. The Indian Railways are currently developing hydrogen fuel cell designs and stations, with an estimated cost of Rs 80 crore for each train.

Features

The train features are next explained in detail. Let us see the impressive features of these hydrogen-powered trains.

Noise Reduction: These trains will be 60% quieter than the diesel trains, thus improving the comfort of those travelling in the trains.
Travel Distance: The H3, the train in question, can move up to 1000 km between charges.
Speed: It can go as fast as 140 kilometres per hour.
Passenger Capacity: The modified hydrogen train will have the same passenger carrying capacity as a conventional train.

The Expected Routes For The First Hydrogen Train

The first hydrogen train will initially roll out on the 90-kilometre line connecting Jind to Sonipat in Haryana. Future hydrogen train use plans also include other route-wise projects like the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Nilgiri Mountain Railway, and Kalka-Shimla Railway.

Conclusion

The development of hydrogen fuel cell electric-powered trains is a grand step towards climate-friendly mobility for Indian Railways. Through this green technology, the largest network of tracks, built by the Indian railways, is minimising the emission of greenhouse gases while at the same time increasing the conveniences for travellers.

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