Railways to seek global firms for hydrogen train manufacturing

06 Dec 2023 CW Team

India has suggested the initiation of an expression of interest from global entities for the production of hydrogen-powered trains within the country, utilising technology that is currently being developed domestically.

It has been revealed that Indian Railways is in the process of creating a prototype for a train that will utilise hydrogen fuel cells, presenting a more environmentally friendly alternative to the conventional diesel-powered locomotives.

In an interview, Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated, "Our focus, given that we are almost fully electrified, is on acquiring more renewable energy and increasing the utilisation of green energy."

He further expressed that only a few nations possess the expertise to manufacture hydrogen-powered trains, and India is making significant progress in its endeavours to advance this technology. He added, "By the end of the current fiscal year, we should be able to develop one prototype."

The plan involves manufacturing trains based on this technology through collaborations with both domestic and international railway system manufacturers. The issuance of the expression of interest is anticipated to take place next year, following the completion of the prototype.

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