India's first hydrogen-powered train to be flagged off by PM Modi in Haryana on Friday

India's first hydrogen-powered train to be flagged off by PM Modi in Haryana on FridayThe train will operate on the 89-km Jind-Sonipat section of the Northern Railway, covering stations including Gohana and several intermediate halts.

Ajith Athrady

Last Updated 16 July 2026, 22:11 IST

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India’s first hydrogen-powered train.Credit: Instagram/@narendramodi

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag off India's first hydrogen-powered train from Jind railway station in Haryana on Friday, marking a significant milestone in the country's push towards green rail transport.

The train will operate on the 89-km Jind-Sonipat section of the Northern Railway, covering stations including Gohana and several intermediate halts. Unlike conventional electric trains that draw power from overhead lines, this train generates electricity onboard through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen in a Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cell. Water vapour and heat are the only by-products, making it a zero-emission, environmentally friendly mode of transport.

According to an official statement, the train “carries its own source of power” like steam and diesel locomotives of the past, but without combustion or dependence on external power supply. With an operational speed of 75 kmph and a top design speed of 110 kmph, it offers both sustainability and efficiency.

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Also Read:India's first hydrogen-powered train set for inaugural run on July 17

In a notable departure from global hydrogen train projects — which are mostly limited to 2-4 coach regional services in countries like Germany, France, and China — India’s version is a full 10-coach passenger train with a seating capacity of around 2,600 passengers. This demonstrates the scalability of hydrogen technology for high-density operations.

Safety has been prioritised with multi-layer systems capable of detecting hydrogen leaks, heat, flames, and smoke. The train features automatic shut-off valves, continuous ventilation to disperse any leaked hydrogen, and specially designed loco pilot cabins with real-time system monitoring and emergency modes. Similar safety protocols, including leak detectors and fire suppression systems, have been installed at the country’s largest railway hydrogen refuelling facility established at Jind.

The project creates India’s first integrated hydrogen rail ecosystem, covering rolling stock, storage, dispensing infrastructure, and operational protocols. The route was chosen to test viability, safety, and reliability under regular service conditions, the statement said.

The initiative builds on Indian Railways’ massive electrification achievements — over 99 per cent of broad gauge routes are now electrified — and paves the way for future deployment, including possible use on heritage routes like Kalka-Shimla.

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(Published 16 July 2026, 22:11 IST)

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