Indian Railways has taken a significant step towards green and sustainable transportation by approving the introduction of a 10-car Hydrogen Fuel Cell-based trainset on the Jind-Sonipat section of Northern Railway. According to the Ministry of Railways, the trainset is "all set to start soon" and will operate at a maximum speed of 75 kmph using a "1200 KW hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system."
Clean and Efficient Rail Transport
The initiative aims to promote cleaner and more energy-efficient rail transport. The ministry highlighted that hydrogen fuel cell technology "generates electricity through a chemical reaction using hydrogen, with water vapour as the only emission," making it "a clean alternative to conventional fossil fuel-based traction systems." With this move, India joins countries such as Germany, Japan, China, and the United States that are exploring hydrogen-powered rail transportation.
Pilot Route and Infrastructure
The Jind-Sonipat section in Haryana has been selected as the pilot route for operations. An indigenous hydrogen storage and refuelling facility has been established at Jind for the trainset. The Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) has granted the required licence for the storage and dispensing of compressed hydrogen gas at the site. According to the ministry, a hydrogen compression system has been installed for refuelling operations along with technical support and critical spares "to ensure reliable and fail-safe functioning." A standby compressor unit is also being arranged.
Safety Measures
The minister further stated that safety sensors, including "hydrogen leak detectors and flame detectors" installed at the hydrogen production, storage and dispensing facility, will be regularly inspected and cleaned to ensure safe operations. Indian Railways has also put in place operation and maintenance manuals for the hydrogen trainset and hydrogen plant, approved by RDSO, along with safety provisions, audits and standard operating procedures for the maintenance facility at Shakurbasti.
Monitoring and Training
The approval includes "24x7 monitoring of the hydrogen refuelling system, deployment of trained and certified personnel for critical operations, and regular inspection and maintenance schedules." During the initial phase, trained technical staff will accompany the train "to ensure smooth functioning."
Commitment to Sustainability
The project reflects Indian Railways' commitment to "innovation, energy efficiency and environmentally sustainable transportation" and supports India's clean energy and net-zero carbon emission goals, the statement added.
