Daily
250 words
7/10
Rating

19 July 2026

India's first hydrogen-powered train

This topic represents a significant technological milestone in India's green energy transition and railway infrastructure modernization, directly aligning with the National Green Hydrogen Mission.

1 min read Day 3 of 3 2 questions 2 prelims

Notes

  • India's first hydrogen-powered train operates on an 89-km stretch between Jind and Sonipat, Haryana.
  • The train consists of 10 coaches: two Hydrogen Driving Power Cars (DPCs) and eight Trailer Coaches.
  • Mechanism: Proton exchange membrane fuel cells combine hydrogen with oxygen to generate electricity for traction motors; by-products are only water vapour and heat.
  • Power output: Each DPC produces 1,200 kW, with a combined output of 2,400 kW, enabling a design speed of 110 km/h.
  • Refuelling: Hydrogen is produced via electrolysis at an on-site plant in Jind, compressed to 500 bar, and dispensed at 350 bar.
  • Safety features: Continuous leak detection, automatic shut-off systems, ventilation, and third-party certification by TÜV SÜD.
  • Strategic alignment: Part of the National Green Hydrogen Mission to achieve Net Zero goals; potential deployment on heritage routes like Kalka-Shimla.

Part of a longer story

This is day 3 of 3 in Launch of India's hydrogen-powered train, which has been running since 17 July 2026. Reading it whole is usually worth more than reading today alone — the exam asks how something developed.

Questions

  1. Discuss the potential of hydrogen fuel cell technology in decarbonizing the Indian railway sector. How does this technology align with the National Green Hydrogen Mission? 150 words
    Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min
    0 / 150 words 8:00
  2. The transition to hydrogen-powered rolling stock presents both technological opportunities and safety challenges. Analyze the operational mechanism of hydrogen fuel cell trains and the regulatory requirements necessary to ensure public safety in their deployment. 250 words
    Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min
    0 / 250 words 11:00

Prelims

  1. Which of the following is the primary by-product of the electrochemical reaction in a hydrogen fuel cell used in the newly launched Indian hydrogen train?

  2. What is the primary method used at the Jind facility to produce hydrogen for the train's operations?

Syllabus

Topics

Sources

250words.in · https://250words.in/daily/2026-07-19/india-s-first-hydrogen-powered-train