Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated India's first indigenously built hydrogen-powered train on the Jind-Sonipat route in Haryana this week.
The launch marks a shift toward decarbonizing one of the world's largest rail networks. By testing hydrogen fuel-cell technology, India aims to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and advance its goal of clean-energy mobility.
The pilot project features a 10-coach train [1] designed to operate using a fuel-cell system. Unlike traditional diesel engines, this system produces only water vapour as an emission [1]. The train has a passenger capacity of about 2,600 people [2] and can reach a maximum speed of 75 kph, or 47 mph [2].
This development is part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, which focuses on creating self-reliant, indigenous technology [3]. The government is using the Jind-Sonipat line to evaluate how hydrogen as a fuel source performs under local operational conditions before considering a wider rollout across the national rail system.
Officials said the project serves as a critical test for the feasibility of hydrogen-powered transport in India. The integration of such technology requires new infrastructure for hydrogen storage and refueling, a challenge the pilot program is designed to address.
By developing the train domestically, India seeks to avoid dependence on foreign technology for its green transition. The project is viewed as a cornerstone for future clean-energy initiatives in the transportation sector [3].
“The pilot project features a 10-coach train designed to operate using a fuel-cell system.”
The introduction of a hydrogen-powered train signals India's intent to move beyond electrification and diesel toward a diversified green energy portfolio. While the current speed of 75 kph is modest, the success of this pilot will determine if hydrogen can scale to meet the demands of high-capacity regional transport, potentially positioning India as a leader in indigenous clean-rail exports.
