In a major stride toward sustainable transportation, Indian Railways has developed the world’s most powerful hydrogen-powered train engine, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced on Thursday, January 11. The breakthrough positions India as a global leader in green transport innovation.
Speaking at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention during a session titled Green Connections: Diaspora’s Contribution to Sustainable Development, Vaishnaw revealed that only four countries currently produce hydrogen-powered train engines. While most engines in this category generate 500 to 600 horsepower, India’s indigenously developed engine delivers a remarkable 1,200 horsepower, setting a new benchmark in the field.
The first trial run of the hydrogen-powered train is scheduled to take place soon on the Jind-Sonipat route in Haryana. Although the engine has been completed, final system integration work is underway to prepare for the trial.
Vaishnaw highlighted the versatility of hydrogen technology, noting its potential for use in other transport systems, such as trucks and tugboats. “Indigenously developed technology opens doors for derivative applications across various sectors,” he said.
The minister also emphasized the importance of self-reliance, urging domestic production of components across the value chain to bolster India’s technological ecosystem. He expressed confidence that this achievement will drive further innovation and strengthen the country’s position in sustainable transportation technologies.
This development marks a significant milestone in India’s journey toward greener and more self-sufficient transport solutions, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change and reduce carbon emissions.
