Indian Railways to increase hydrogen train speed to 110 kmph

Indian Railways is working to increase the operational speed of its first hydrogen-powered train to 110 kmph. Railway Board Chairman and CEO Satish Kumar stated that while current operations are limited to 75 kmph, successful trials have already been conducted at speeds of up to 120 kmph.

Officials are currently consulting with stakeholders to determine which rail sections are suitable for hydrogen operations and are examining the technical requirements for a reliable fuel supply. The hydrogen fuel-cell trainset generates electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, emitting only water vapour and heat, thereby eliminating smoke and carbon emissions.

The pilot service currently operates on the 89-km Jind-Sonipat route in Haryana. Additionally, the Railways is expanding its Vande Bharat sleeper express program. The first service is active between Howrah and Kamakhya, with four more units set for formal inauguration soon. A total of 200 Vande Bharat sleeper trains are being manufactured under a public-private partnership model.