Railways Ministry approves India's first daily hydrogen-powered train service for Jind-Sonipat route
New Delhi, July 10
The Ministry of Railways has approved the introduction of India's first daily hydrogen-powered train service between Jind and Sonipat, according to sources.
The service will operate as train numbers 74010/74009 and will have commercial stoppages at Jind City, Pandu Pindara, Lalit Khera, Bhambeva, Ishapur Kheri, Butana, Khandrai, Gohana, Rabhra, Lath, Mohana, Haryana and Barwasni, sources said.
Subsequently, in June, a trial run of a hydrogen-powered train was conducted between Delhi and Jind, with the test focusing on key parameters including emergency braking distance and train oscillation.
In May, Indian Railways approved 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 run at a maximum speed of 75 kmph using a "1200 KW hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system."The move is aimed at promoting cleaner and more energy-efficient rail transport. The ministry said 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 the initiative, India joins countries such as Germany, Japan, China and the United States that are exploring hydrogen-powered rail transportation.
The Jind-Sonipat section in Haryana has been selected as the pilot route for operations. An indigenous hydrogen storage and refuelling facility has also 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.
The ministry further said 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.
— ANI
Reader Comments
This is impressive but I'm concerned about the cost of hydrogen production and how they'll source it sustainably. We need to ensure this doesn't become more expensive for passengers than regular trains. Good initiative overall though.
Great to see India joining the list of countries exploring hydrogen trains! 🇮🇳... But 75 kmph max speed seems slow. For daily commuting between Jind and Sonipat, this might work, but we need faster options for long distance. Safety measures with leak detectors are welcome.
Hmm, I'm skeptical. We've seen many ambitious railway projects announced but actual implementation takes ages. Let's wait and see if this train actually starts running on time. Also, what about the cost of tickets? Will it be affordable for common people like us?
This is a wonderful step for reducing carbon emissions! 🌍 The fact that they've already done a trial run and set up indigenous hydrogen storage at Jind shows serious commitment. If successful, this could revolutionize Indian Railways. Kudos to the team!
Exciting times! My grandmother lives near Sonipat and she'll be thrilled to see a hydrogen train. I just hope the maintenance and safety protocols are followed strictly. Those hydrogen leak detectors and flame detectors need regular checks. Better safe than sorry!
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