India’s first Hydrogen train to be launched soon

India’s first hydrogen trainset is ready for its official launch. Recently, this train has cleared load tests and is set for final commissioning. The Ministry of Raiways has plans to run 35 Hydrogen-powered trains under “Hydrogen for Heritage” on various heritage/hill routes.

- BY S VENKAT NARAYAN Our SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT

India will be the fourth country in the world to operate hydrogen trains after Germany, China and Canada.

A hydrogen train is a train powered not by diesel or electricity from overhead wires, but by hydrogen fuel cells. Hydrogen fuel cells generate electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen (H2) and oxygen (02) from the air).

This reaction produces electricity, water vapor, and heat—no carbon emissions.

The electricity powers the train’s motors, just like a battery-electric train.

The only “exhaust” is water, making it a zero-emission alternative.

Traditional trains, especially diesel ones, emit CO2, nitrogen oxides, and other pollutants. Hydrogen trains produce zero greenhouse gases at the point of use.

For countries aiming to reduce carbon emissions, this is a major advantage.

Unlike electric trains, hydrogen trains don’t need overhead electric wires.

This is especially useful for rural or less-busy rail lines, where installing electrification infrastructure would be expensive.