New Delhi: India has launched its first hydrogen-powered passenger train. The train was flagged off from Jind railway station in Haryana on Friday.
The train will first run on the 89-km Jind–Sonipat route under Northern Railway. It will connect Jind, Gohana and Sonipat, with stops at several stations along the route.
Unlike electric trains that need overhead power lines, this train makes its own electricity using a hydrogen fuel cell. It works by combining hydrogen with oxygen from the air. The only emissions are water vapour and heat, making it a cleaner transport option.
Railway officials said the train is part of India’s move towards cleaner and more environment-friendly rail travel. It also reduces the use of diesel and does not need an external power supply while running.
The train has several safety features to detect hydrogen leaks, high temperatures, fire and smoke. A monitoring system keeps checking the train’s condition during the journey.
It has a top operating speed of 75 kmph, while its design speed is 110 kmph.
Hydrogen-powered passenger trains are still uncommon around the world. Germany was the first country to use them in regular service. France, Italy, Japan and China are also testing or using the technology on some routes.
The new train is expected to support India’s efforts to use cleaner energy and reduce pollution in the railway network.
