India Launches First Hydrogen Train on Jind-Sonipat Route

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will launch India’s first hydrogen-powered train on the Jind-Sonipat section in Haryana on Friday. Indian Railways is joining a small group of nations utilizing hydrogen for passenger rail, aiming to reduce reliance on diesel and further its clean energy initiatives following the near-complete electrification of its broad gauge network.

The 10-coach train can carry around 2,600 passengers and utilizes a Proton Exchange Membrane fuel cell system, emitting only water vapour and heat. A newly constructed hydrogen refuelling facility at Jind will support operations, producing and storing nearly 3,000 kg of hydrogen.

This project establishes India’s first complete railway hydrogen ecosystem, from production to operation, and represents one of the largest hydrogen trainsets globally, exceeding the capacity of most existing hydrogen trains abroad. The initial pilot phase will see the train operate at 75 kmph on the 89-km route, with potential expansion to heritage lines like Kalka-Shimla in the future.