India’s first hydrogen-powered train saves 3,200 litres of diesel; Delhi route tests next

India's first hydrogen-powered train has travelled more than 1,200 kilometres since it was flagged off on July 17, with Railways saying the project has already saved over 3,200 litres of diesel during trial operations between Jind and Sonipat in Haryana.According to a railway ministry press release, the successful trial runs have paved the way for the next phase of testing, with operations on the Delhi route expected to begin soon.Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the country's first hydrogen-powered train from Jind under the Centre's Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.Train generates electricity using hydrogen fuel cellsUnlike conventional diesel locomotives, the hydrogen train produces electricity onboard through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen inside fuel cells, according to the Railway Ministry.The electricity generated powers the train's motors, while water vapour is the only by-product released during the process.Because there is no combustion, the train produces no smoke or tailpipe carbon emissions, making it one of the cleanest forms of rail propulsion currently available, the ministry said.Developed indigenously by Indian RailwaysThe hydrogen train has been developed as an indigenous project by Indian Railways.According to the railway ministry, the train consists of 10 passenger coaches and two Hydrogen Driving Power Cars that together generate 2,400 kW of power.The propulsion system is supported by lithium iron phosphate batteries along with hydrogen cylinders.Railways minister Ashwini Vaishnaw described the project as a landmark achievement, saying the propulsion system and related technology were developed within India.Dedicated hydrogen storage facility set up at JindThe project has also led to the establishment of Indian Railways' first dedicated hydrogen storage and refuelling facility at Jind.The railway ministry said green hydrogen is stored at pressures of up to 500 bar and dispensed at 350 bar. The facility has a storage capacity of around 3,000 kilograms of hydrogen to support regular train operations.Multiple safety systems incorporatedAccording to the ministry, the train has been equipped with several safety features, including:Independent hydrogen leak detection systemsHeat, flame and smoke sensorsAutomatic emergency shut-off systemsContinuous ventilationCompliance with international safety standardsMandatory technical validations before operationsThe ministry said these measures are intended to ensure the safe operation of hydrogen-powered trains under Indian conditions.Delhi trials planned nextFollowing the successful operations between Jind and Sonipat, Indian Railways plans to begin trial runs on the Delhi route.According to the railway ministry, the project aims to establish an indigenous hydrogen rail ecosystem while supporting the country's transition towards zero-emission rail transport.Officials said the initiative could lay the foundation for wider deployment of hydrogen-powered trains across India in the future.Get the latest Business News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.