Jind: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday flagged off India’s first hydrogen-powered train from Jind railway station in Haryana. The eco-friendly train will operate between Jind and Sonipat, with ticket prices ranging from Rs 5 to Rs 26. The hydrogen train produces zero emissions, making it a major step towards cleaner rail transport.
Why is it a major achievement?
The operation of the hydrogen train between Jind and Sonipat is a major achievement for Indian Railways. This project demonstrates the Railways’ commitment to innovation, energy efficiency, and environmentally friendly transportation.
The train will also contribute to achieving clean energy and net-zero carbon emission goals. The Jind-Sonipat section has been selected as a pilot route for these operations. An indigenous hydrogen storage and refuelling facility has been built in Jind for the train.
The Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation has granted the necessary licenses for the storage and dispensing of compressed hydrogen gas on site.
PM Narendra Modi also laid the foundation stone for various development projects worth over Rs 26,000 crore and dedicated them to the nation. This is part of the ‘Hydrogen for Heritage’ project. With this initiative, India joins the select group of countries adopting hydrogen train technology.
What about other projects?
PM Narendra Modi also laid the foundation stone of the Sikh Museum at Kurukshetra and the 24.27 km long Hansi–Barwala Brownfield Highway Project.
What did PM Modi say?
Prime Minister Modi, while addressing the launch programme of multiple development projects, said that “‘Yo Koi Sadharan Dharti Nahi Se’. This land is a land of history, valour, faith, and pride.”
Is a hydrogen-powered passenger train uncommon?
With the launch of the hydrogen-powered train, India joins a select group of countries like Germany, Japan, China and the United States that are exploring the use of hydrogen for clean rail transport. According to a government statement, the technology is still in its infancy, so very few countries are currently operating or testing such systems.
How does a hydrogen train run?
Hydrogen fuel cell technology uses hydrogen to generate electricity through a chemical reaction, producing only water vapour. This makes it a cleaner alternative to traditional fossil fuel systems. Hydrogen-based rail systems are increasingly recognised worldwide as a promising solution for sustainable transport. A hydrogen compression system has been installed for refuelling. Necessary technical support and spare parts are also provided to ensure reliable and safe operation. A standby compressor unit is also being arranged.
