India’s first hydrogen-powered train has successfully completed more than 1,200 kilometres of operations within days of its launch, marking a major milestone in the country’s transition towards clean and sustainable rail transportation. During its initial operations, the train has already helped save over 3,200 litres of diesel, emitting only water vapour instead of harmful exhaust gases.
Developed entirely by Indian Railways, the hydrogen train represents a significant step towards achieving zero-emission rail mobility while strengthening India’s indigenous railway technology capabilities.
A New Era Of Green Rail Transport
The hydrogen-powered train was flagged off on July 17, 2026, and currently operates between Jind and Sonipat in Haryana. Unlike conventional diesel-powered trains, it generates electricity onboard through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen.
This process produces electricity to power the train while releasing only water vapour as a by-product, eliminating smoke and tailpipe carbon emissions.
Indigenously Developed Technology
The project has been designed and developed entirely in India under Indian Railways’ indigenous technology programme. The 10-coach train is powered by two Hydrogen Driving Power Cars capable of generating a combined 2,400 kW of power.
The propulsion system is supported by advanced lithium iron phosphate batteries and hydrogen cylinders, ensuring efficient performance and reliable operations throughout the journey.
Dedicated Hydrogen Infrastructure
To support the project, Indian Railways has established its first dedicated hydrogen storage and refuelling facility at Jind. The facility can store nearly 3,000 kilograms of green hydrogen, with storage pressures reaching up to 500 bar.
The entire hydrogen ecosystem has been built in accordance with international safety standards, ensuring secure storage, transportation and refuelling of hydrogen fuel.
Advanced Safety Systems
Safety has been a key focus of the hydrogen train project. The train is equipped with multiple independent systems capable of detecting hydrogen leaks, excessive heat, flames and smoke. Automatic shut-off mechanisms and continuous ventilation systems further enhance operational safety.
These features have undergone extensive testing and validation before the train entered service.
Delhi Trials To Begin Soon
Following the successful completion of more than 1,200 kilometres of operations on the Jind-Sonipat route, Indian Railways is preparing to begin trial runs on the Delhi route.
Officials believe the project will pave the way for a larger hydrogen-powered railway ecosystem in India, reducing dependence on fossil fuels while supporting the country’s environmental and sustainability goals.
Summary
India’s first hydrogen-powered train has completed over 1,200 kilometres of successful operations, saving more than 3,200 litres of diesel and emitting only water vapour. Developed entirely by Indian Railways, the project marks a major milestone in clean transportation and is expected to expand further with upcoming trial runs on the Delhi route.
