India is on track to join a select group of countries operating hydrogen-powered trains, with trial runs scheduled for December 2024. The Indian Railways has engaged Germany’s TUV-SUD to conduct a third-party safety audit for its first hydrogen train. Once operational, India will become the fifth nation worldwide to deploy hydrogen trains, joining Germany, France, Sweden, and China.

As part of the Hydrogen for Heritage initiative, Indian Railways is developing 35 hydrogen-powered trains, each estimated to cost INR 80 crores, and is also investing INR 70 crores per route for the necessary ground infrastructure. This effort will enhance rail operations, especially on various heritage and hilly routes, while promoting sustainable and eco-friendly technology.

In addition to passenger trains, five Hydrogen Fuel Cell-Based Tower Cars (maintenance vehicles) are being developed, with each unit costing around INR 10 crores. These vehicles will support railway maintenance operations, ensuring that India’s rail network remains robust and efficient while embracing green technology.

An official from Indian Railways commented on the progress, stating that system integration tests for the battery and fuel cell units have already been successfully conducted. The retrofit of a Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) rake with a hydrogen fuel cell is also part of the pilot project. This hydrogen-powered train is expected to operate on the Jind-Sonipat section of Northern Railway.

The hydrogen required for the train will be generated using a 1-megawatt (MW) Polymer Electrolyte Membrane (PEM) electrolyser located in Jind. GreenH Electrolysis, the company behind this project, has announced that the electrolyser will generate approximately 430 kg/day of hydrogen, with a refuelling infrastructure in place to store and distribute hydrogen efficiently. The infrastructure includes 3,000 kg of hydrogen storage, compressors, and dispensers integrated with pre-cooling technology for quick refuelling.

India’s commitment to hydrogen technology doesn’t stop at trains. Northeast Frontier Railway is actively expanding its network to boost connectivity in the northeastern region. The introduction of Vistadome coaches on tourist trains and Bharat Gaurav trains further promotes tourism, offering new ways for travellers to explore the region’s beauty. Additionally, the railway is providing improved amenities, such as retiring rooms, executive lounges, and a scenic hub at the Brahmaputra riverfront near the Bogibeel Bridge.

As India takes significant strides towards greener transportation, the successful deployment of hydrogen-powered trains will mark a key milestone in the nation’s journey toward sustainability and innovation in the rail sector.