Nuclear Powered Trains

About Initiative:

• Indian Railways is actively exploring using nuclear power through captive units as part of its strategy to increase reliance on non-fossil fuel sources.
• The first nuclear-powered train movements are expected to focus on circuits served by the Nabinagar Thermal Power Plant, leveraging existing infrastructure to test and expand nuclear energy use in rail transport.

What are Nuclear-Powered Trains?

• Nuclear-powered trains utilise the heat generated from a nuclear reaction to produce steam, which drives turbines. 
  • One turbine powers the train, while another creates electricity for auxiliary systems such as lighting and air conditioning.
• The idea of nuclear-powered trains gained attention in the 1950s, especially in the USSR, where it became a goal of the Ministry of Transport.

How do Nuclear-Powered Trains function?

• Design: These trains would feature a portable nuclear reactor. The reactor heats a fluid to produce steam, which then powers electric turbines. These turbines generate the necessary electricity to propel the train.
• Thorium reactors: Thorium-based reactors are considered for their lower radiation risks compared to other nuclear materials. 
  • The design of the reactors incorporates advanced safety mechanisms to minimise risks and prevent potential misuse.

Q1. What is the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL)?

The NPCIL is an Indian public sector undertaking (based in Mumbai) wholly owned by the Government of India and is responsible for the generation of electricity from nuclear power. NPCIL is administered by the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE).

Source: Indian Railways: Plans to go nuclear as part of its green drive - The Hindu BusinessLine