The Research Designs & Standards Organisation (RDSO) announced on August 29 that it has completed a vital performance test for India’s inaugural hydrogen train. This test, conducted on the fuel cell and battery systems, is a significant step in India’s push towards greener rail transport.
The test, aimed at matching the drive cycle simulation for the proposed Jind-Sonipat route, marks the end of the stationary testing phase for the Driving Motor Coach subassemblies. This milestone is crucial in ensuring that the hydrogen train’s fuel cell and battery systems can meet the operational requirements of the Jind-Sonipat section.
HYDROGEN TRAIN INITIATIVE
The hydrogen train represents a pivotal development in India’s efforts to adopt sustainable rail transport solutions. Indian Railways is set to introduce 35 hydrogen trains under its “Hydrogen for Heritage” initiative. Each train is estimated to cost around Rs 80 crore, with additional ground infrastructure costs of Rs 70 crore per route.
RETROFITTING AND PILOT PROJECTS
Indian Railways is also embarking on a pilot project to retrofit existing Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) rakes with hydrogen fuel cells. This project, which includes ground infrastructure, is budgeted at Rs 111.83 crore and will be implemented on the Jind–Sonipat section of Northern Railway.
LONG-TERM BENEFITS AND COSTS
While the initial operational costs of hydrogen fuel trains are high, they are anticipated to decrease with increased adoption. Hydrogen fuel offers significant environmental benefits, supporting India’s zero-carbon emission goals as a clean energy source.
FUTURE OUTLOOK
The successful completion of this performance test is a crucial step forward in the development of India’s hydrogen train fleet. As the project progresses, it is expected to play a key role in India’s broader sustainability and environmental goals for rail transport.
The achievement of this performance milestone underscores the progress being made in India’s rail industry towards adopting clean energy solutions. The hydrogen train initiative represents a forward-looking approach to sustainable transport, promising to reduce carbon emissions and support the country’s environmental objectives.