A new chapter in railway history… Hydrogen train launched… Here are the specialties

A new chapter has begun in the history of Indian Railways. The Central Government has introduced eco-friendly practices in the railway sector as well. As part of this, a train running on hydrogen has been introduced. Prime Minister Modi flagged off the train at Haryana’s Jind railway station.

Speaking on the occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that this is a testament to Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India). “It is a proud moment for India to join the list of countries that have launched hydrogen train services. This stands as a crucial step towards expanding clean and sustainable technology in the railway sector,” he said.

This hydrogen train will initially run on the Jind – Sonipat route under the Northern Railway. It will travel approximately 90 kilometers, stopping at 12 stations along the way. The train has been made available with 10 coaches. It can accommodate 2,600 passengers.

Here are the specialties of the hydrogen train…

The hydrogen train generates its own electricity.

For this purpose, the train is equipped with a power plant called the Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell.

A reaction between hydrogen and oxygen takes place in the 1,200-kilowatt capacity fuel cell, which generates electricity. The train carries hydrogen in the form of tanks.

It will provide services for about 356 kilometers daily through two round trips between Jind and Sonipat. It will operate with a capacity of 75 km to 120 km per hour. It will stop at Jind City, Pandu Pindara, Lalit Khera, Bhambhewa, Ishapur Kheri, Butana, Khandrai, Gohana, Rabhra, Lath, Mohana (Haryana), Barwasni, and Sonipat railway stations.

A total of 10 coaches are available, including two driving power cars and eight passenger coaches. 2,600 passengers can travel at once. These coaches are very luxurious. However, it features only non-AC coaches.

The train also features safety systems. If threats like hydrogen leakages, heat, fire, or smoke arise, they will alert within seconds.

Prioritizing safety, the loco pilot cabin has been specially designed. A screen is also placed right in front of the loco pilot, which provides updates from time to time.