Hydrogen Train: There is a good news about India’s first Hydrogen Train. The Ministry of Railways has given the green light for the operation of the nation’s first hydrogen-powered 10-coach DEMU train. This train will travel between Jind and Sonipat within the Northern Railway zone, reaching a top speed of 75 kilometers per hour.
Instead of relying on diesel or electricity, the train will harness power from hydrogen fuel cells. It boasts a total power output of 1,200 kilowatts and will utilize Distributed Power Rolling Stock (DPRS) technology, which distributes power throughout the train. The ministry’s endorsement followed technical approval from the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO).
The Commissioner of Railway Safety also carried out safety audits. Officials noted that this approval does not imply an immediate start to operations, as several compliance procedures and verification steps still need to be finalized. The General Manager of Northern Railway is required to submit all compliance reports, which will involve other statutory authorities like the RDSO, CCRS, and the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO).
Safety and Compliance
PESO has authorized the refueling of compressed hydrogen gas in Jind (Haryana). Dust can potentially damage sensors installed at hydrogen production, storage, and distribution facilities, so regular cleaning will be implemented to ensure safe operations. Northern Railway will also provide necessary training for personnel assigned to critical roles, including those at hydrogen refueling stations and onboard crew members.
Maintenance and Initial Operations
This train is allowed to operate solely between the Jind and Sonipat section. Maintenance will take place at Shakur Basti in Delhi. Following safety protocols, the train will be towed to Shakur Basti by a diesel locomotive for maintenance. During the first three months, trained technical staff will accompany the train to address any technical issues that may occur along the route.
Why is it important for India?
According to reports, testing of the train has been completed. The tests were conducted by the Research Designs and Standards Organization (RDSO) as part of the evaluation process. Once it enters commercial service, India will join a select group of global countries, including Germany, Sweden, Japan, and China, that operate hydrogen-powered trains.
According to the information, the hydrogen train’s rolling stock has been approved for operation only on the Jind-Sonipat section, while scheduled maintenance of the trainsets will be performed at Shakurbasti. It also states that the necessary authorization for operating the trainsets in an idle state on the Jind-Shakurbasti-Jind route will be ensured in accordance with existing regulations.
