Why in news?
The Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai has developed and tested India’s first hydrogen‑powered driving power car. It forms part of the government’s plan to introduce thirty‑five hydrogen trains under the “Hydrogen for Heritage” initiative.
Overview
- Technology: Hydrogen trains use fuel cells that convert hydrogen and oxygen into electricity, releasing only water and heat. Batteries store excess energy, and regenerative braking improves efficiency.
- Development: The prototype was built by ICF under technical guidance from Northern Railways. It is the world’s most powerful hydrogen train at 1,200 horsepower and comprises a 10‑car rake.
- Cost and pilot run: Each train costs about ₹80 crore. The first route chosen for pilot operation is Jind–Sonipat in Haryana.
Significance
- Hydrogen trains produce zero emissions and support Indian Railways’ goal of becoming net‑zero by 2030.
- The project positions India among a handful of countries developing hydrogen rail technology and could pave the way for hydrogen‑powered trucks, ships and industrial equipment.
- By manufacturing and testing components domestically, the initiative strengthens the local green‑energy supply chain.