India has achieved a major milestone in sustainable transportation with the launch of its first hydrogen-powered passenger train, marking the country’s entry into the league of nations adopting hydrogen fuel-cell technology for rail transport. The train was flagged off on 17 July 2026 as part of Indian Railways’ push towards cleaner and greener mobility.
Route
The hydrogen-powered train will initially operate on the:
- Jind – Sonipat railway section
- State: Haryana
- Distance: Approximately 89 km
- The route includes multiple intermediate stations and has been selected as the pilot corridor for hydrogen rail operations.
Key Features
- Powered by hydrogen fuel cells that generate electricity by combining hydrogen and oxygen.
- Zero tailpipe emissions—the only by-product is water vapour.
- Top speed: Up to 110 km/h (initial operations are expected at around 75 km/h during the rollout phase).
- Configuration: Two hydrogen-powered driving cars with eight trailer coaches.
- Power output: Around 2,400 kW.
- Passenger capacity: Approximately 2,600 passengers.
- Designed and integrated in India under the Make in India initiative.
- Equipped with hydrogen leak detection, smoke sensors, and heat monitoring systems for enhanced safety.
Hydrogen Refuelling Facility
A dedicated green hydrogen production and refuelling station has been established at Jind to support train operations. The facility produces hydrogen for the fuel-cell system, enabling the train to operate without diesel or overhead electric wires.
Why This Train Is Important
The project is a significant step toward reducing carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. By introducing hydrogen-powered rail transport, Indian Railways aims to:
- Cut greenhouse gas emissions.
- Reduce reliance on diesel locomotives.
- Promote indigenous green-energy technologies.
- Support India’s long-term net-zero and clean-energy goals.
The launch also places India among a select group of countries—including Germany, France, Italy, China, and Japan—that are developing or operating hydrogen-powered trains.
What’s Next?
If the pilot proves successful, Indian Railways is expected to evaluate hydrogen-powered services for additional routes, including selected heritage and non-electrified rail corridors, expanding the use of clean-energy rail transport across the country.
