India has taken a major step in green transportation with the successful trial of a 1200 HP hydrogen-powered train coach in Chennai, marking its emergence as a leader in hydrogen energy adoption in railways. This advanced locomotive, among the most powerful hydrogen trains globally, is a vital milestone in India’s mission to reduce its carbon footprint and eliminate diesel use. By switching to hydrogen fuel, Indian Railways aims to cut emissions significantly, improving air quality across urban and rural areas.
Hydrogen Trains Set for Launch on Jind-Sonipat Route with ₹80 Cr Investment Each
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasized the project’s strategic value, announcing the rollout of 35 hydrogen trains, each costing ₹80 crore, along with ₹70 crores per route for infrastructure. The Jind-Sonipat corridor under Northern Railway has been chosen for the inaugural route, covering 356 kilometers in two daily round trips. This will allow comprehensive real-world testing to gather critical data on performance, efficiency, and fuel economy.
Each train will be configured with hydrogen fuel engines at both ends and eight conventional coaches in between, offering a total capacity of over 2,600 passengers. The engineering and retrofitting have been led by Hyderabad-based Medha Servo Drives at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai. To ensure the highest safety standards, especially given hydrogen’s flammability, German safety auditing firm TÜV SÜD has been engaged as a third-party safety assessor.
Hydrogen Trains: Powering India’s Sustainable and Self-Reliant Transport Future
This transition to hydrogen is central to India’s larger sustainability ambitions, targeting reduced greenhouse gas emissions and lower levels of air and noise pollution. It also supports the vision of smart, liveable cities with cleaner environments. Moreover, domestically developed hydrogen solutions promote energy security and reduce dependence on imported fuels, strengthening economic resilience. With lower long-term operating costs and eco-friendly benefits, India’s hydrogen train initiative stands as a symbol of future-ready, sustainable public transport infrastructure.
Summary:
India has trialed a 1200 HP hydrogen-powered train in Chennai, marking a major step toward eco-friendly rail travel. With 35 trains planned, starting on the Jind-Sonipat route, the initiative aims to reduce diesel use, cut emissions, and boost energy security, supporting India’s sustainable and self-reliant transport vision.
