On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate India's first hydrogen-powered train
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Nuclear & new energy technology· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate India's first hydrogen-powered train on the Jind-Sonipat route, marking a milestone in low-emission railway transport.
Background
The 10-car trainset utilizes a 1,200-kilowatt hydrogen fuel cell system to generate electricity on-board. It operates at a maximum speed of 75 km/h and emits only water vapor as a byproduct.
Facts for Prelims
- S&THydrogen fuel cell propulsion: Generates electricity by combining hydrogen with oxygen from the air inside a fuel cell.
- FactThe Jind to Sonipat hydrogen train covers an 89-KM distance in approximately 2 hours.
- FactThe trainset is equipped with a 1,200-kilowatt fuel cell system.
- PlaceThe first hydrogen-powered train route is Jind to Sonipat in Haryana.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the potential of hydrogen fuel cell technology in decarbonizing the Indian Railways and the challenges in making it a mainstream transport solution.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Economic viability: High production costs of green hydrogen compared to existing electrified rail networks.
- Infrastructure constraints: Requirement for high-pressure hydrogen storage and specialized refueling stations along railway corridors.
- Technological niche: Limited utility on broad-gauge networks already covered by overhead electrification.
Keywords: Green Hydrogen · Fuel Cell Technology · Decarbonization · Energy Transition · Sustainable Transport
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