Full Steam, Zero Emissions: India’s First Hydrogen Train Cleared for Operations

By Amandeep Singh

India is set to roll out its first hydrogen-powered train on the Jind-Sonipat section, marking a major leap towards clean and sustainable rail transport.

The 10-car trainset, powered by a 1200 KW hydrogen fuel cell engine, has been approved to run at a top speed of 75 kmph under Northern Railway. With this, India joins a select group of nations including Germany, Japan, China and the US exploring hydrogen-based rail technology.

Unlike conventional trains, the hydrogen fuel cell system produces electricity through a chemical reaction using hydrogen, with water vapour as the only emission, making it a greener alternative for future mobility.

An indigenous hydrogen storage and refuelling facility has already been set up at Jind, with safety clearances from PESO in place. Indian Railways has also put in place round-the-clock monitoring, trained technical staff, leak and flame detection systems, and dedicated maintenance protocols for the pilot project.

The move aligns with India’s larger push towards clean energy, innovation and net-zero carbon goals, while placing Indian Railways on the global map of next-generation green transport.