India Embraces Sustainable Rail Innovation with Hydrogen-Powered Trains
Key Ideas
- India achieves a significant milestone in sustainable transport by successfully testing its first hydrogen-powered train coach in Chennai.
- The Railway Minister hails the development as a historic achievement, marking India's entry into the group of countries leading in hydrogen-powered train innovation.
- The Indian Railways' broader sustainability initiative includes plans for 35 hydrogen-powered trains under the 'Hydrogen for Heritage' programme, showcasing a commitment to cleaner energy alternatives in public transport.
India has made notable progress in sustainable transport by testing its first hydrogen-powered train coach at the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai. The Railway Minister praised the achievement as a historic milestone in green rail technology, signaling India's entry into the group of countries pioneering in hydrogen-powered trains. The tested unit, designed to reduce carbon emissions, is part of a larger initiative that will see 35 hydrogen-powered trains operating under the 'Hydrogen for Heritage' programme. Each train is estimated to cost around ₹80 crore, with additional infrastructure development costs. Furthermore, a pilot project is underway to retrofit a Diesel Electric Multiple Unit with hydrogen fuel cells. Despite higher initial operational costs, officials anticipate a decrease with scaling and innovation, aligning with India's goal of zero carbon emissions and the adoption of clean, renewable energy in public transport.