India’s First Hydrogen-Powered Train to Launch on July 17: How It Works
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag off India's first hydrogen-powered train on July 17, running on an 89-kilometre stretch between Jind and Sonipat in Haryana. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw described the launch as a milestone in Indian Railways' transition from coal and steam to cleaner energy sources.
The train is a ten-coach set that can carry about 2,600 passengers. Unlike conventional electric trains that draw power from overhead lines, this train generates its own electricity onboard using hydrogen. The hydrogen reacts with oxygen from the air in a Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cell, producing electricity to power the traction motors. The only by-products are water vapour and heat, meaning no combustion, smoke, or tailpipe carbon emissions.
The train comprises two Hydrogen Driving Power Cars (DPCs) and eight Trailer Coaches. Each DPC houses fuel cells, lithium iron phosphate batteries, and hydrogen storage cylinders. The two power cars together produce 1,200 kW (1,600 hp) each, enough to push the train up to a speed of 110 km/h. The operational speed on the Jind–Sonipat section will be 75 km/h.
The hydrogen to fuel the train comes from a dedicated plant at Jind. Hydrogen is produced onsite through electrolysis, where water is split into hydrogen and oxygen using electricity. The hydrogen is then compressed to 500 bar and stored in tanks. It is dispensed at 350 bar through two independent dispensers, allowing both DPCs to be refuelled simultaneously. The facility stores nearly 3,000 kg of hydrogen, sufficient for regular operations, and has been approved by the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO).
Safety is a key concern as hydrogen is highly flammable, colourless, and odourless. The train and plant are equipped with continuous leak detection systems, heat and smoke sensors, and non-stop ventilation. Any leaked hydrogen is quickly diluted and dispersed into the open air. The Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) set technical specifications, Medha Servo Drives integrated the trainset, and Integral Coach Factory (ICF) designed the exterior.
India's hydrogen train represents a step toward sustainable rail transport, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and cutting emissions. Similar initiatives are being explored globally, but India's launch marks a significant domestic development in green technology.
