New Delhi : India is preparing to launch its first hydrogen-powered train, marking a significant step toward eco-friendly and sustainable railway transportation. The Railway Board has approved the operation of the country’s maiden hydrogen train on the Jind–Sonipat section in Haryana, bringing India closer to adopting green mobility solutions used in several developed nations.

The upcoming train will be a 10-coach Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) fitted with a powerful hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system. Railway officials said the train is expected to run at a top speed of around 75 kilometres per hour and will primarily operate on the Northern Railway network.

The project is part of Indian Railways’ broader initiative to reduce carbon emissions and promote clean energy in public transportation. Unlike traditional diesel-powered trains, hydrogen trains release only water vapour and heat, making them an environmentally safer option. The move is also in line with India’s long-term climate and sustainability goals.

Preparations for the hydrogen train have been underway for several months at the Jind railway facility in Haryana. Authorities have reportedly completed infrastructure work, including the installation of a hydrogen production and refuelling station. Trial runs and technical inspections were carried out before the Railway Board granted its final approval.

Railway officials believe the introduction of hydrogen-powered trains will help modernise India’s transport sector while reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Countries such as Germany and Japan have already adopted hydrogen-based railway systems, and India is now aiming to join the list of nations investing in cleaner rail technology.

The Ministry of Railways has also announced plans to expand hydrogen train operations in the future. Reports suggest that thousands of crores have been allocated for the development of additional hydrogen-powered trains, especially for heritage and non-electrified railway routes across the country.

Experts, however, point out that challenges remain in the large-scale implementation of hydrogen technology. High operational costs, storage facilities, hydrogen production, and refuelling infrastructure are some of the major hurdles that need to be addressed before the technology can be widely adopted.

Despite these challenges, the launch of India’s first hydrogen train is being seen as a landmark achievement in the country’s transportation sector. The project highlights Indian Railways’ commitment to innovation, energy efficiency, and environmentally responsible travel.

Commercial operations of the hydrogen train are expected to begin soon, making it a major milestone in India’s journey toward cleaner and greener mobility solutions.

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