Prelims: Current events of national and international importance | Science & Technology
Why in News?
Recently, Prime Minister flagged off India’s 1st hydrogen‑powered train between Jind and Sonipat (Haryana), marking India’s entry into the select group of countries operating hydrogen trains.
Key Highlights
- Technology – Powered by hydrogen fuel cell technology
- Process
- Power System – Two hydrogen driving cars, each producing 1,200 kW, supported by lithium iron phosphate batteries and hydrogen storage cylinders.
- Refuelling – India’s 1st integrated hydrogen railway ecosystem at Jind.
- It includes facilities for hydrogen production by electrolysis, plus storage, compression, and refuelling at the same plant.
- Train specs – 10 coaches, capacity 2,600 passengers; operational speed 75 kmph (designed for 110 kmph).
- Global context – Germany pioneer; China operational; France, Italy rolling out; Japan, US, UK, South Korea at pilot stage.
- India’s train is longest hydrogen train (10 coaches) and among the most powerful (3,200 HP) globally.
Challenges
- High costs – Green hydrogen production, storage, refuelling infrastructure expensive.
- Safety – Hydrogen highly flammable; requires high‑pressure storage, strict protocols.
- Infrastructure needs – Reliable supply chain, trained manpower, dedicated maintenance facilities.
Reference
TOI | First hydrogen train
