India is set to mark a major milestone in its railway network with the launch of its first indigenous hydrogen-powered train.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag off the country's first homegrown hydrogen train from Jind in Haryana on July 17. The train will operate as a special inaugural service on the Jind-Sonipat section.
With the launch, India joins a select group of countries, including Japan, the United States, Canada and South Korea, where hydrogen-powered trains are already in use.
Route And Timings
The inaugural hydrogen train will cover a distance of 89 kilometres between Jind City and Sonipat in approximately two hours.
The train will halt at 12 stations:
- Jind City (Origin)
- Pandu Pindara
- Lalit Khera
- Bhambhewa
- Ishapur Kheri
- Butana
- Khandrai
- Gohana
- Rabhra
- Lath
- Mohana
- Barwasni
- Sonipat
Train No. 74010 will depart from Jind Railway Station at 7:40 am and arrive at Sonipat Railway Station at 9:40 am.
The return service, Train No. 74009, will leave Sonipat Railway Station at 10:40 am and reach Jind at 1:00 pm.
Key Features Of India's First Hydrogen Train
The train will have 10 coaches with 682 seats and a total passenger capacity of around 2,600.
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Although the train has successfully completed trials at a maximum speed of 120 kmph, its operational speed has been approved at 75 kmph by the Railway Board.
The train will have a power capacity of 2,400 kilowatts and will be equipped with a 1,200-kilowatt hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system.
Specifications:
- Total coaches: 10
- Seating capacity: 682
- Total passenger capacity: Around 2,600
- Operational speed: 75 kmph
- Maximum speed: 120 kmph
How Hydrogen Trains Work
Hydrogen-powered trains, also known as "Hydrail" or "H-Trains", are considered a cleaner alternative to diesel locomotives on non-electrified railway routes.
The trains generate electricity through a chemical reaction in hydrogen fuel cells. The process does not produce carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions and releases only water vapour, making it an environmentally friendly mode of transport.
Regular Passenger Services Yet To Be Announced
According to a senior Railway official, the train will operate as a special inaugural service on July 17.
A decision on the commencement of regular passenger services has not yet been taken.
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