• India’s push for hydrogen-fuelled trains marks a significant step in the nation’s journey toward sustainable transport and green energy solutions.
• The hydrogen-powered engine developed by India stands out globally, with an impressive 1,200 horsepower, making it the world’s most powerful hydrogen engine for rail travel.
• Developed by the Research, Design, and Standard Organisation (RDSO), this engine showcases India's capacity for innovation in tackling complex challenges related to rail transport across diverse terrains.
Key Developments and Projects:
i) Hydrogen for Heritage: Launched in 2023, this initiative focuses on retrofitting Diesel-Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) trains with green hydrogen fuel cells.
• The government has earmarked Rs 2,800 crore for 35 hydrogen trains and Rs 600 crore for related infrastructure. The first trial run is set for March 2025 along the Jind–Sonipat section in Haryana.
ii) Green Hydrogen Production and Infrastructure: To support the hydrogen-powered trains, an electrolyser plant in Jhajjar, Haryana, produces 420 kilograms of hydrogen per day.
• A dedicated refuelling system can store up to 3,000 kilograms of hydrogen, ensuring reliable operations for the trains.
iii) Financial Perspective: While the initial costs for these hydrogen-powered trains are significant, with high investments in green hydrogen production, infrastructure, and technology, experts expect the costs to decrease as operations scale up.
• The long-term benefits include reduced reliance on fossil fuels, environmental advantages, and increased efficiency, particularly on non-electrified rail routes, where overhead cables are costly and difficult to install.
It could revolutionise the way trains are powered
• India’s hydrogen-powered train project is a bold move toward cleaner, more sustainable transportation. As the country moves closer to integrating green hydrogen into its rail network, it is not only contributing to global environmental goals but also positioning itself as a leader in clean energy technologies.
• If successful, the project could serve as a global model for eco-friendly transportation, helping India achieve its energy independence and net-zero goals in the coming decades.
• With continued investment and technological advancements, India’s foray into hydrogen-powered rail travel could revolutionise the way trains are powered globally, offering a blueprint for other nations to follow in the quest for a greener future.
Global scenario
• Germany has already launched Alstom Coradia iLint hydrogen-powered trains, with operational routes in regions like Lower Saxony and the Frankfurt Metropolitan Area. These trains have a 1,000 km range and 140 km/h top speed.
• Other countries, including Canada, Italy, Saudi Arabia, and France, have also conducted successful trials of hydrogen-powered trains, signalling a shift towards cleaner rail transport worldwide.
(The author is a trainer for Civil Services aspirants.)