Indian Railways is making significant strides in green technology with the development of the country’s first hydrogen-powered train, a move aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable transportation. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw shared details of the project in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha on Friday.
The initiative involves retrofitting a diesel-electric multiple unit (DEMU) rake with a hydrogen fuel cell on a pilot basis. The Research Design and Standards Organisation (RDSO) has formulated specifications for the train, which is being developed entirely with indigenous technology.
“This project is a major step toward India’s commitment to clean energy in rail transport. The train will not only be among the longest hydrogen trains in the world but also one of the most powerful,” Vaishnaw stated.
To support the initiative, Indian Railways is also developing an integrated hydrogen production, storage, and refueling facility. The Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) has already granted safety approvals for the facility layout.
The minister was responding to a question from MP Ajit Kumar Bhuyan regarding the status of hydrogen-powered train technology in India.
