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India is poised to revolutionise rail transport with the launch of its first hydrogen-powered train, which is set to undergo trial runs between Haryana’s Jind and Sonipat stations. Designed by the Research, Design, and Standard Organisation (RDSO), this groundbreaking initiative aligns India with a select group of nations exploring hydrogen as a sustainable energy source for railways.

The hydrogen train, a first-of-its-kind large-scale endeavour globally, is expected to complete its final trials in the first quarter of the upcoming year. RDSO has meticulously crafted the design, incorporating modern utility and innovation to ensure it meets global standards. The project’s roots date back to December 2021, when the design was unveiled during the International Innovative Rail Expo in Lucknow.

Highlighting the train’s features, RDSO Director General Uday Borwankar noted, “While hydrogen fuel has been tested in road transport, its application in railways is still in its nascent stages worldwide. India’s advancements in this domain signify a major leap toward sustainable energy.”

The hydrogen-powered train comprises eight passenger coaches with a capacity to carry 2,638 passengers per trip. Three additional coaches are equipped to store hydrogen cylinders and house integrated fuel cell converters, batteries, and air reservoirs. With a maximum speed of 110 km/h, the train is designed for short-distance routes, and its integration is currently underway at Chennai’s Integral Coach Factory (ICF).

Globally, hydrogen-powered trains use electricity generated through fuel cells combining hydrogen and oxygen to propel the motor. While countries like Germany and China have pioneered hydrogen rail transport, success remains limited to smaller scales. Germany, for instance, operates hydrogen trains with only two coaches.

India’s hydrogen train project not only underscores the nation’s commitment to green energy but also positions it as a trailblazer in sustainable transportation. Though unofficially dubbed “Namo Green Rail,” officials clarified that the train’s official name will be announced at launch.

As the nation awaits the trial run, this ambitious project reaffirms India’s strides toward a greener, cleaner future in rail mobility.

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