Jind district in Haryana is poised to enter the history books as the launchpad for India's first-ever hydrogen train. The landmark train has already arrived at the Jind junction, with its inaugural run expected to commence shortly. Officials hail this development as a proud moment for both Indian Railways and the state of Haryana, signaling a transformative direction for the future of rail travel in the country.
A Leap into Elite Global Company
With this initiative, India joins a select group of nations pioneering hydrogen fuel cell technology in rail transport, following in the footsteps of Germany, France, Sweden, and China. The successful completion of trials on the Sonipat track has paved the way for the train's operational debut. This modern, eight-coach train is engineered to redefine passenger experience with a strong emphasis on enhanced comfort, safety, and convenience.
Design and Safety: A Modern Marvel
The coaches, manufactured at the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai, boast state-of-the-art facilities. A key design feature is the placement of power cars at both ends of the train, which strengthens operational efficiency and safety. Prioritizing passenger security, the train incorporates a metro-style safety protocol: it will depart only after all doors are fully closed, significantly minimizing accident risks.
The train's metro-style design includes two doors on each side of every coach for smooth entry and exit. Passengers will enjoy facilities like fans, lights, and air-conditioning throughout their journey. Notably, the train is designed to run silently, ensuring a peaceful and comfortable travel experience.
Operational Details and Official Word
The environmentally friendly train is slated to operate on the Jind–Gohana–Sonipat route. Its impressive specifications include a speed limit of 110 km per hour and the capability to travel approximately 180 km using 360 kg of hydrogen. Officials claim it can cover up to ten times the distance compared to electric trains on a single energy charge.
Bijender Singh, an official associated with the project, confirmed that all technical preparations are complete. "However, it's up to the higher authority to take the final decision to run it on the track," he stated. "All aspects are being checked by officials, and the date of commencement will be decided by higher authorities."
The introduction of the hydrogen train catapults Jind onto the national map as a city embracing cutting-edge technology. This move is expected to open new avenues for regional development, showcasing India's commitment to sustainable and innovative transportation solutions.
