India's First Hydrogen Train Faces Launch Delays but Continues Progress
Key Ideas
- Launch of India's first hydrogen fuel cell train faces delay until June due to technical issues identified during testing.
- Train features 1,200 horsepower hydrogen engine, showcasing India's innovation in clean energy solutions.
- Indian Railways working on fortifying train tracks between Shimla and Kalka to operate train at speeds of around 100 km/hr.
- Hydrogen train to initially operate on the 89-km Jind-Sonipat route in Haryana, designed for short-distance travel with capacity for 2,638 passengers.
India's first hydrogen fuel cell train, set to operate on the heritage Kalka-Shimla route, faces a launch delay until June due to technical issues discovered during testing. The train's hydrogen fuel cell capacity needs to be increased for optimal operation with maximum load-carrying capacity, leading to a two-three month modification process. Despite this delay, the train features a powerful 1,200 horsepower hydrogen engine, utilizing advanced fuel cells to generate electricity while emitting only water vapor. With the design emphasizing clean energy solutions, the train is expected to operate on the 89-km Jind-Sonipat route in Haryana, catering to short-distance travel with a capacity to accommodate 2,638 passengers. Indian Railways is actively enhancing train tracks between Shimla and Kalka to support speeds of around 100 km/hr and has engaged renewable industry executives to review the model. Manufactured by the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai, the hydrogen train represents India's commitment to zero-emission mobility, with plans to develop 35 hydrogen fuel cell-based trains as part of green energy initiatives.