Bhubaneswar, January 10, 2025 - In a significant stride towards sustainable transportation, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced at the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas that the hydrogen fuel-run train engine developed by Indian Railways is now the most powerful in the world in its category. This groundbreaking achievement highlights India's growing prowess in green technology and its commitment to reducing carbon emissions.
Speaking at a plenary session on "Green Connections: Diaspora's Contribution to Sustainable Development," Minister Vaishnaw detailed that this hydrogen-powered engine boasts an output of 1,200 horsepower, surpassing engines from the only four other countries currently producing hydrogen trains, which typically offer between 500 to 600 horsepower.
"This is not just an engine; it's a testament to India's indigenous technological capabilities and our resolve to lead among major economies in using green energy for growth," Vaishnaw stated, emphasizing the potential for this technology to inspire derivative applications across various sectors like trucks and tugboats.
The first trial run of this innovative train is scheduled to take place soon on the Jind-Sonipat route in Haryana. While the engine manufacturing phase is complete, system integration is still underway, ensuring that all components work seamlessly together.
The initiative is part of a broader vision under the "Hydrogen for Heritage" project, where Indian Railways aims to introduce 35 hydrogen fuel cell-based trains, investing heavily in both the trains and the requisite ground infrastructure to support this eco-friendly mode of transport. This project is expected to significantly contribute to India's zero carbon emission goals, showcasing the country's commitment to environmental sustainability.
Vaishnaw also mentioned the broader implications of this technological leap, suggesting that such advancements could pave the way for India to become technologically self-sufficient, although he acknowledged there's still a long journey ahead in terms of completing the entire value chain.
This announcement has drawn attention from around the globe, with countries like Germany, France, Sweden, and China, which are also pioneering hydrogen train technologies, taking note of India's advancements. The hydrogen train not only promises to revolutionize rail travel with its high power output and zero-emission promise but also positions India as a leader in green tech innovation on the world stage.
The Railway Minister's declaration has sparked discussions on the potential economic and environmental benefits of expanding hydrogen technology in India, with many in the industry and environmental sectors lauding this step as a move towards a cleaner, more sustainable future for Indian Railways.