India Grants Approval For First Hydrogen-Powered Train Project
India approves its first hydrogen train, boosting clean and sustainable rail transport.
Indian Railways has granted approval for the operation of India’s first hydrogen fuel cell-powered train, marking a major milestone in the country’s push towards cleaner and more sustainable transportation. The train is part of a broader effort to modernize rail infrastructure under green mobility initiatives and is expected to operate on the Jind–Sonipat section of Northern Railway in Haryana.
The hydrogen-powered train will consist of ten coaches and is designed with a 1,200 kW hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system. It will include two driving power cars, each generating 1,200 kW, taking the total output to 2,400 kW. The train is expected to run at a commercial speed of up to 75 km/h, while trial runs may reach speeds of up to 120 km/h. With eight passenger coaches and dedicated onboard systems for hydrogen storage and energy management, the train is being described as one of the most powerful hydrogen trains planned for a broad-gauge network, and is projected to cover around 250 km on a single refuelling.
Hydrogen fuel cell technology works by generating electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen. The process produces only water vapour and heat as by-products, making it a zero-emission alternative to diesel-powered locomotives. In effect, the train functions as a self-contained power system, producing its own electricity while in motion without releasing harmful pollutants into the environment.
Also Read: Lionel Messi Statue In Argentina Triggers Debate Over Design And Approval
Safety has been a central focus in the train’s design and infrastructure. Around 27 hydrogen cylinders have been installed at both the front and rear of the train to ensure balanced storage and secure handling. A dedicated hydrogen refuelling and storage facility has also been developed at Jind. The Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) has approved all required licences for hydrogen storage and supply, while advanced safety systems such as leak detectors and flame sensors have been integrated across the facility.
The train has been fully designed and developed in India under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. The Research Designs and Standards Organisation in Lucknow handled the engineering design, while the Integral Coach Factory in Chennai carried out manufacturing. This reflects India’s growing capability in indigenous railway technology development.
The Jind–Sonipat route in Haryana has been selected as a pilot corridor for the project due to its suitability for testing emerging technologies. With nearly complete electrification of its broad-gauge network, Indian Railways is positioning hydrogen trains not as replacements for electric systems, but as solutions for non-electrified, remote, or heritage routes. The initiative, also referred to as “Namo Green Rail,” highlights India’s broader commitment to reducing emissions and advancing next-generation public transport solutions.
Also Read: Telangana CM Thanks Defence Minister For Gandhi Sarovar Project Approval
