Chennai, India has achieved a significant milestone in its pursuit of sustainable mobility with the successful testing of the nation’s first hydrogen-powered train coach at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) yard. This pivotal stride, confirmed by the Railway Ministry, marks a transformative step towards decarbonising the vast Indian Railways network, aligning perfectly with the national agenda for zero-net-carbon, eco-friendly, and equitable urban environments by embracing cutting-edge green technology.
The successful trial of the 1200 HP hydrogen train coach in Chennai positions India at the forefront of hydrogen energy adoption in the railway sector. This innovative locomotive, claimed to be among the most capable hydrogen trains globally, signifies a major leap towards reducing the environmental footprint of one of the world’s largest rail systems. The technology promises to eliminate diesel consumption and associated emissions, contributing directly to cleaner air quality in cities and towns across the country.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted the strategic importance of this development, revealing plans to deploy 35 hydrogen trains at an estimated cost of ₹80 crore each, with an additional ₹70 crore per route allocated for infrastructure. The inaugural operational route for these eco-friendly trains will be the Jind-Sonipat corridor under the Northern Railway, where two round trips covering 356 kilometres will be clocked. This strategic deployment on a specific route will allow for real-world testing and refinement of the technology, gathering crucial data on performance and efficiency.
Each hydrogen train configuration will feature hydrogen fuel engines at both the front and rear, with eight conventional coaches in the middle designed to accommodate over 2,600 passengers. The engineering design and conversion work for this pioneering project have been undertaken by Hyderabad-based Medha Servo Drives at the ICF in Chennai. To ensure top-tier safety standards for this highly flammable fuel, German third-party safety auditor Technischer Überwachungsverein Süd (TÜV SÜD) has been engaged, underscoring a commitment to robust operational integrity.
The shift to hydrogen power is a critical component of India’s broader sustainability goals. By replacing diesel-powered trains, the Railways will significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants, mitigating their impact on climate change and public health. This aligns with the vision of creating sustainable cities that prioritise clean air, reduced noise pollution, and a healthier environment for all residents. Furthermore, the long-term operational cost efficiencies associated with hydrogen, coupled with its indigenous development, contribute to energy security and economic self-reliance, building a resilient and future-ready transport network.
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