The Railway Ministry, on Tuesday, approved the operation of India’s first hydrogen-powered 10-coach DEMU train between Jind and Sonipat under the Northern Railway zone.The train will run at a maximum speed of 75 kmph and use hydrogen fuel cells to generate power instead of diesel or conventional electric traction, PTI reports.With a total power output of 1,200 kilowatts, the train will operate on Distributed Power Rolling Stock (DPRS) technology, where power is distributed across the coaches instead of being concentrated in a single locomotive.Safety clearances and compliance still underwayThe ministry’s approval came after technical sanction from the Research Designs and Standards Organisation and safety testing by the Commissioner of Railway Safety (CCRS).As cited by PTI, the sanction letter, sent to the General Manager of Northern Railway, directed compliance with all safety, maintenance and operational conditions laid down by RDSO, CCRS and other statutory authorities, including the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO).The letter also further noted, “Various sensors (leak detectors, flame detectors, etc) provided on ground hydrogen production, storage and dispensing facilities are prone to failure due to dust accumulation. Necessary schedule for regular clearing shall be ensured for failsafe operation.”Officials clarified that the approval does not mean immediate commencement of operations, as several compliance and verification stages are still pending.Diesel locomotive to haul train for maintenanceAccording to officials, the hydrogen train will operate only on the Jind-Sonipat section, while maintenance facilities have been set up at Shakurbasti in Delhi.For maintenance movement, the hydrogen system will be switched off and the train will be hauled in a “dead condition” using a diesel locomotive.The ministry has also mandated special training and competency certification for staff handling hydrogen refuelling and onboard operations.
