India's first hydrogen train to be flagged off next week: Route, speed, technology and all you need to know
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to flag off the country's first hydrogen train from the Jind railway station in Haryana on July 17, news
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to flag off the country's first hydrogen train from the Jind railway station in Haryana on July 17, news agency PTI said quoting sources in the railway ministry. "As of now, we have received confirmation from the PMO that Prime Minister Modi will flag off the hydrogen train from Jind on July 17," a senior railway official told the news agency. Also Read | Railways postpones formal launch of bullet train tunneling work Experts from the mechanical department said that each driving power car (DPC) can generate 1,200 kilowatts (kW) of power, equivalent to about 1,600 horsepower (hp). Quick answers to key questions ā¢ 5 QUESTIONS 1 What features does India's first hydrogen train have? āµ India's first hydrogen train features two driving power cars, eight passenger coaches, generates 1,200 kW of power, and has a maximum speed of 75 kmph on the Jind-Sonipat route. 2 Why is hydrogen train technology significant for India? āµ Hydrogen train technology is significant as it aligns with India's commitment to energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions, marking the country's entry into a select group of nations using hydrogen for cleaner rail transport. 3 How does the hydrogen fuel cell work in the train? āµ The hydrogen fuel cell in the train works by converting hydrogen into electricity through a chemical reaction, with water vapour being the only emission, thereby providing a clean energy solution for rail transport. 4 Should other countries adopt hydrogen train technology? āµ Yes, other countries should consider adopting hydrogen train technology as it contributes to sustainable mobility and reduces reliance on fossil fuels, supporting global efforts to combat climate change.
5 What safety measures are implemented for the hydrogen train operations? āµ Safety measures for the hydrogen train include comprehensive operational protocols, hydrogen leak detectors, flame detectors, and regular inspections to ensure safe operation at the hydrogen production, storage, and dispensing facility. āThe train is equipped with hydrogen fuel cells that convert hydrogen into electricity and release water vapour, making it a clean energy system,ā an expert told the news agency. What is the Hydrogen train? With two driving power cars and eight passenger coaches, the train has undergone extensive trials at speeds ranging from 75 kmph to 120 kmph over the past two-and-a-half months between Sonipat, Jind and New Delhi. Following the flag-off, the train will commence commercial operations. It will cover about 356 km daily by making two round trips of 89 km each between Jind and Sonipat in Haryana. The train has 682 seats and a total passenger capacity of 2,600. The train stores 440 kg of compressed hydrogen, and its safety and design validation have been carried out by TUV SUD, an independent testing and certification organisation, ensuring that it meets international safety standards. Originating in Germany, as a Technical Inspection Association, TUV SUD ensures that technological products, systems, and facilities are safe, secure, and sustainable. "At maximum passenger load and operating conditions, it will consume about 300 kg of hydrogen per day. The train is designed to safely reach a maximum speed of 110 kmph; however, its operational speed on the Jind-Sonipat route will be 75 kmph," a railway official told news agency PTI The train has been permitted to operate strictly between the Jind and Sonipat section only and its maintenance facilities have been created at Shakurbasti in Delhi, its hydrogen power system will be switched off as per safety protocol to bring it to a dead condition, and a diesel locomotive will haul the entire train to Shakurbasti for maintenance.
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