Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off India's first hydrogen-powered train, named "Namo Rail," on Friday [1].
The launch marks a significant step in India's clean-energy mission to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable rail transport [2].
The event took place at the Jind railway station in Haryana [1]. The new service operates on a route spanning 89 km between Jind and Sonipat [1]. This initiative represents the first of its kind for the Indian rail network, introducing hydrogen fuel cell technology to replace traditional diesel or electric power [3].
Hydrogen-powered trains generate electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, emitting only water vapor. By deploying this technology, the government aims to modernize the national transport infrastructure while meeting environmental targets [2].
Officials said that the project is part of a broader push toward green mobility [2]. The Namo Rail serves as a pilot for potential wider implementation across the country's extensive railway system [3].
“India's first hydrogen-powered train, named 'Namo Rail'”
The introduction of the Namo Rail signals India's intent to diversify its energy sources for heavy transport. By transitioning from diesel to hydrogen, the country aims to lower its carbon footprint and establish itself as a leader in green hydrogen technology, though the scalability of the project will depend on the development of hydrogen refueling infrastructure.
