Hydrogen Train Launch: The wait is over. The first hydrogen train in India is scheduled to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi this month, with preparations currently underway. The Jind-Sonipat track will host the hydrogen train, and the inauguration of the Jind Junction building, constructed as part of the Amrit Bharat Yojana, is also anticipated.
The Delhi Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) of the Northern Railway, Pushpesh Raman Tripathi, recently inspected the railway station building and hydrogen plant. Accompanied by ADC Pradeep Kumar, he also surveyed the Eklavya Stadium, a potential site for the opening ceremony, and the helipad.
While there has been no official confirmation from the railway or district administration regarding the Prime Minister’s visit and the inauguration, discussions within the railway department hint that the event might take place on either July 12th or 17th.
The DRM mentioned that the hydrogen train trials are at an advanced stage, with speed tests successfully conducted on the Sonipat to Jind route and ongoing trials on other sections. Despite the inauguration date remaining unspecified, inspections continue. Addressing concerns about technical issues with the hydrogen plant, the DRM emphasized the significance of this pioneering project, marking India’s first hydrogen train operation.
Hydrogen trains are a rarity globally, operating in only a few countries. This project is crucial for its potential to eliminate carbon emissions. As part of the Amrut Bharat Abhiyan, the Jind Junction building is well-equipped, featuring an efficiently installed hydrogen filling station. Pushpesh Raman Tripathi, the Railway Manager (DRM) of the Delhi Division of Northern Railway, arrived in Jind on Friday and inspected the hydrogen train project, including the railway station. The DRM began his tour at the newly constructed station building. He then inspected the hydrogen plant. During a press conference, DRM Tripathi stated that trials are currently in a very advanced stage. Speed trials have already been conducted on the Sonipat-Jind section, while trials are ongoing on other sections.
Efforts are underway to complete the trials as soon as possible, and once the trials are completed, the train will begin operating after receiving approval. He added that no schedule has been released yet for the inauguration, nor has a tentative date been set. He added that an inspection was conducted to determine the possibility of an inauguration in the near future. The government will decide who will perform the inauguration.