HARYANA: India is rapidly moving towards clean and green transportation. In this context, the country’s first hydrogen train has attracted people’s attention. Passengers traveling in this train say that neither smoke like diesel engine was seen nor loud noise was heard during the journey. Many passengers described it as “the train journey of the future” and said that they had never had such a calm and comfortable experience before.
Hydrogen fuel based trains are considered an example of environmentally friendly technology. Their aim is to reduce pollution, reduce dependence on fossil fuels and make rail transport more sustainable.
What did the passengers say?
Many passengers who took the first journey reported that the vibration and noise felt during the running of the train was much less compared to normal diesel engines.
According to the passengers-
The journey was very calm and comfortable.
There was no smoke problem at all.
The operation of the train felt quite smooth.
The environment inside felt more clean and comfortable.
Modern technology was experienced during the journey.
Many called it a historic and positive initiative for Indian Railways.
How does hydrogen train work?
Hydrogen fuel cell technology is used in hydrogen trains instead of traditional diesel engines.
In this process-
Hydrogen gas reaches the fuel cell.
In a fuel cell, a chemical reaction occurs between hydrogen and oxygen in the air.
Electricity is generated through this process.
This electricity runs the electric motor of the train.
Mainly water vapor and heat are released as by-products.
For this reason, smoke or carbon emissions from such trains are almost negligible.
Major advantages of hydrogen train
Environmental protection
The use of green hydrogen can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Why is it important for Indian Railways?
Indian Railways is one of the largest rail networks in the world. If hydrogen technology is used extensively in the future, it will—
Carbon emissions may be reduced.
Clean energy will be promoted.
National goals of green transportation will be strengthened.
Contribution to environmental protection will increase.
However, for widespread expansion of this technology, hydrogen production, storage, fuel supply and development of necessary infrastructure will also be important.
What challenges will have to be faced?
Experts believe that hydrogen trains are the technology of the future, but there are some challenges for their large-scale operation—
Adequate production of green hydrogen.
Developing special stations for fuel filling.
Initial cost being relatively high.
Requirement of technical maintenance and trained human resources.
Strict adherence to safety standards.
With solutions to these challenges, this technology may become more effective in the coming years.
Big step for environment
India has set several targets towards clean energy and net-zero emissions. Hydrogen based rail technology is considered an important part of these efforts. If its expansion is successful, it can give a new direction to the use of green energy in the railway sector.
Reduction in pollution
Hydrogen trains are considered much more environmentally friendly than diesel engines as they have much less carbon emissions.
Low noise
The operation of these trains is relatively quiet, giving passengers a more comfortable travel experience.
Energy Efficiency
Fuel cell technology helps in better utilization of energy and is considered an important option for future clean transportation.
Less dependence on fossil fuels
Hydrogen-based technology can be helpful in reducing dependence on traditional fuels like diesel.
