India launches First Hydrogen-Powered Train for Green Mobility – The Indian EYE

Our Bureau

Chandigarh

India on Friday entered an elite group of nations operating hydrogen-powered trains as Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the country’s first indigenous Hydrogen Fuel Cell Train, marking a significant step towards cleaner and more sustainable rail transport.

The 10-coach train will operate on the 89-km Jind–Sonipat section of Northern Railway in Haryana. Powered by hydrogen fuel cells, the train generates electricity onboard through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, with water vapour and heat as the only by-products, making it a near-zero emission mode of transport.

Developed under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, the train comprises two hydrogen-powered driving cars and eight passenger coaches, with a total carrying capacity of around 2,600 passengers. It has a design speed of 110 kmph and an operational speed of 75 kmph. Indian Railways has also established a dedicated hydrogen production, storage and refuelling facility at Jind, creating the country’s first integrated hydrogen railway ecosystem.

Officials said the train is equipped with advanced multi-layer safety systems capable of detecting hydrogen leaks, heat, flames and smoke, ensuring safe commercial operations. The indigenous project was developed by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF), Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO), and other Indian engineering partners after extensive trials.

The launch forms part of Indian Railways’ broader strategy to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and accelerate the transition to green mobility. Hydrogen-powered trains are viewed as an efficient alternative for non-electrified routes where conventional electrification may be difficult or economically unviable.

With the inauguration of the service, India joins countries such as Germany, France and China in deploying hydrogen-powered rail technology, reinforcing its commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 while advancing indigenous innovation in sustainable public transport.

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