Indian Railways is poised to take a significant leap towards sustainable mobility with the launch of its first hydrogen-powered train on the Jind-Sonipat route. Manufactured by Chennai-based Integral Coach Factory (ICF), this milestone project aligns with the nation’s zero-carbon emission goals and positions India among a select group of countries—Germany, France, Sweden, and China—operating hydrogen-powered trains.
Backed by a ₹2,800 crore allocation for FY 2023-24, the Ministry of Railways is developing 35 hydrogen fuel cell-based trains. The first unit, assigned to Northern Railway’s Delhi Division, is expected to commence operations on the 89-km Jind-Sonipat section this month.
The pilot project involves retrofitting Diesel Electric Multiple Units (DEMU) into Hydrogen Fuel Cell Distributed Power Cars (DPCs). Unlike conventional propulsion, where power is centralized, these advanced DPCs feature hydrogen fuel cells, onboard storage tanks, and distributed power systems across multiple carriages. This setup improves weight distribution, enhances efficiency, and delivers better overall performance.
With hydrogen-powered trains gaining traction globally, India’s entry into this segment marks a significant stride toward energy-efficient and eco-friendly rail transport, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable infrastructure and green technology adoption.
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