Charting a Green Future: India’s Hydrogen-Powered Trains

India is poised to make a groundbreaking leap in sustainable transportation by introducing green hydrogen-powered trains. This ambitious initiative, spearheaded by Indian Railways and supported by the government’s commitment to renewable energy, represents a crucial step in reducing the nation’s carbon footprint and achieving energy independence.

The Power of India’s Hydrogen Engine 

India has successfully developed the world’s most powerful hydrogen-powered locomotive, boasting an impressive 1,200 horsepower—significantly higher than comparable global models that typically range from 500 to 600 horsepower. Designed by the Research, Design, and Standard Organization (RDSO) in Lucknow, this engine promises to enhance rail efficiency, making it ideal for India’s diverse terrains.

 Pilot Project: “Hydrogen for Heritage”

In 2023, the Ministry of Railways launched the “Hydrogen for Heritage” project, which aims to introduce hydrogen fuel cell trains on heritage and hill routes. The government has allocated ₹2,800 crore for 35 hydrogen-powered trains, along with ₹600 crore for supporting infrastructure. The first retrofitted Diesel-Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) hydrogen train is expected to begin trial runs in March 2025 along the Jind–Sonipat route in Haryana. An electrolyser plant in Jhajjar, Haryana, already produces 420 kg of hydrogen daily, supporting a dedicated 3,000 kg hydrogen refueling system crucial for the pilot project.

 Financial Outlook and Long-Term Benefits 

Although initial investments in hydrogen trains are substantial due to the technology and infrastructure costs, large-scale implementation is anticipated to drive down expenses over time. Unlike conventional trains, hydrogen-powered models can operate on non-electrified tracks, thereby decreasing dependence on costly overhead electric cables.

Aligning with the National Green Hydrogen Mission

This hydrogen train initiative aligns seamlessly with India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission, which was launched in 2023 with a budget of ₹19,744 crore. The mission aims to produce five million metric tonnes of green hydrogen annually by 2030, bolstering India’s clean energy ecosystem and lessening reliance on fossil fuels.

Global Developments in Hydrogen Rail Technology

Globally, countries such as Germany, Canada, Italy, Austria, and France have already begun implementing hydrogen rail technologies. Germany’s Alstom Coradia iLint, operational since 2018, and Siemens’ Mireo Plus H hydrogen trains, with a range of 1,200 km, are leading examples of this shift towards cleaner railway systems.

A Sustainable Future for Indian Railways 

India’s hydrogen-powered rail project marks a significant milestone in clean transportation innovation. As trial runs commence and infrastructure expands, these hydrogen trains could become a cornerstone of India’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070. This transformative shift promises to ensure a cleaner, more sustainable rail network for future generations.

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