Indian Railways set to commence trial run of First Hydrogen Train Set by end of the year

New Delhi, India (Metro Rail Today): In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030, Indian Railways (IR) is gearing up to launch its first hydrogen train. This ambitious project is part of the broader "Hydrogen for Heritage" initiative, which envisions operating 35 hydrogen trains on various heritage and hill routes across the country.

The first hydrogen train has been allocated to the Northern Railway’s Delhi Division, with plans for trial runs to begin by the end of this year. Specifically, the train is expected to operate on the 89-kilometer Jind-Sonipat section. A senior railway official confirmed to ETNOW.in, “India’s first hydrogen train will run on Northern Railway’s Delhi Division. The trial run will commence in December.”

Hydrogen fuel technology represents a significant step towards green transportation, offering a clean energy source that supports Indian Railways' goals of zero carbon emissions. In the financial year 2023-24, the Ministry of Railways has allocated ₹2,800 crore for the development of 35 hydrogen fuel cell-based trains. Additionally, an investment of ₹600 crore has been earmarked for setting up hydrogen infrastructure on heritage routes.

The project is not only focused on the trains themselves but also on creating the necessary infrastructure to support hydrogen fuel technology. In a written response to a question in the Rajya Sabha on February 3, 2023, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw mentioned that Indian Railways has awarded a pilot project for the retrofitting of hydrogen fuel cells onto existing Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) rakes, along with the required ground infrastructure, at a cost of ₹111.83 crore.

The introduction of hydrogen trains complements other initiatives undertaken by Indian Railways to reduce its carbon footprint. These efforts include the use of head-on-generation (HOG) technology, the installation of LED lights in buildings and coaches, the implementation of star-rated appliances, and extensive afforestation programs. Furthermore, Indian Railways is actively installing solar plants on rooftops and land, further contributing to its sustainability goals.

As India prepares for the trial run of its first hydrogen train, this project underscores the commitment of Indian Railways to embrace innovative technologies for sustainable transport. The hydrogen train initiative is poised to revolutionize railway travel in the country, offering a cleaner, greener alternative that aligns with the government's environmental objectives. With a focus on heritage and hill routes, this initiative not only enhances transportation options but also preserves the rich cultural heritage of India while promoting eco-friendly practices.