India has taken a significant leap toward sustainable transportation with the launch of its first hydrogen-powered passenger train. Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the country’s inaugural hydrogen fuel cell train, marking a major milestone in Indian Railways’ journey towards cleaner and greener mobility.
The pilot project will operate on the 89-kilometre Jind–Sonipat route in Haryana under the Northern Railway zone. Unlike conventional diesel-powered trains, the new train runs on hydrogen fuel cell technology, which generates electricity by combining hydrogen and oxygen. The only byproduct of this process is water vapor, making it one of the cleanest forms of rail transport available today.
The launch reflects India’s growing focus on reducing carbon emissions and adopting environmentally friendly technologies across its transportation network. With this achievement, India joins a select group of countries that have introduced hydrogen-powered passenger trains as part of their rail infrastructure.
Designed as a 10-coach trainset, the hydrogen-powered train can accommodate approximately 2,600 passengers. It is equipped with a powerful 1,200-kilowatt hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system, enabling smooth and efficient operations while producing zero harmful emissions during service.
The train has been approved to operate at a maximum speed of 75 kmph, although its structural design supports speeds of up to 110 kmph. The service will connect Jind Junction, Gohana Junction, and Sonipat, while also stopping at several intermediate stations, including Jind City, Bhambhewa, and Mohana, improving connectivity for commuters across the region.
Hydrogen fuel cell technology is increasingly being viewed as a promising alternative to diesel, particularly on railway routes that are not fully electrified. Unlike fossil fuels, hydrogen-powered trains emit only water vapor, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions and contributing to cleaner air.
The project is also expected to provide valuable operational data that can help Indian Railways evaluate the long-term feasibility of introducing hydrogen-powered trains on additional routes across the country. If successful, the technology could play an important role in India’s broader goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions.
India’s entry into hydrogen-powered rail transport places it alongside a handful of nations that are already exploring this next-generation technology.
Germany remains the global pioneer in hydrogen rail transport. In 2022, it became the first country to launch the Alstom Coradia iLint, the world’s first commercially operated hydrogen-powered passenger train. The train gained international attention after covering a record distance of over 1,100 kilometres on a single tank of hydrogen without refuelling. Germany continues expanding its hydrogen rail network with newer hybrid fuel-cell trains.
The United States also entered the hydrogen rail sector in 2024 with the introduction of Zemu (Zero Emission Multiple Unit) in California. Operating on the Arrow Corridor in San Bernardino, the train combines hydrogen fuel cells with battery technology to deliver clean passenger transportation.
Meanwhile, Japan is preparing for the commercial rollout of its hydrogen-powered hybrid train Hybari, which is expected to begin operations near Tokyo by the end of fiscal year 2027. Developed to support sustainable suburban transport, the project forms part of Japan’s long-term environmental strategy.
China has also made considerable progress by developing hydrogen-powered urban transit trains and advanced fuel-cell railway systems aimed at reducing pollution in densely populated cities.
As countries worldwide continue searching for cleaner transportation solutions, hydrogen-powered trains are emerging as a key innovation in the railway sector. While electrification remains an important strategy, hydrogen technology offers a practical alternative for routes where overhead electric infrastructure may not be economically viable.
The launch of India’s first hydrogen-powered passenger train represents more than just a technological achievement. It signals the country’s growing commitment to sustainable infrastructure, clean energy, and innovation in public transport. As the pilot project begins operations, its performance could shape the future of Indian Railways and pave the way for wider adoption of hydrogen-powered mobility across the nation.
