Why in News?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off India's first hydrogen-powered train at Jind railway station in Haryana on July 17, 2026.
Key Points
It is the world's longest hydrogen train, with 10 coaches, a 3,200 horsepower propulsion system, and a design speed of 110 kmph.
It uses Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cells and lithium iron phosphate batteries to generate electricity onboard by reacting hydrogen with oxygen, emitting only water vapour.
A dedicated hydrogen storage and refuelling facility at Jind includes leak detectors, flame detectors, and a compression system; operations are licensed by PESO.
The train is designed, engineered, and integrated entirely in India.
Exam Connect
PEM fuel cell → uses hydrogen and oxygen to produce electricity → by-product is only water vapour → suitable for zero-emission transport
PESO → regulates safety of explosives, compressed gases, and petroleum → under DPIIT → headquartered in Nagpur