Taking a significant step towards green and sustainable transportation, Indian Railways has approved the operation of the country’s first hydrogen fuel cell-based, 10-coach train on the Jind-Sonipat section of Northern Railway.
According to the Ministry of Railways, this train will commence operations shortly and will be powered by a 1,200-kilowatt hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system. It will have a maximum speed of 75 kilometres per hour.
With this initiative, India has joined an elite group of nations—including Germany, Japan, China, and the United States—that are working on hydrogen technology for clean rail transportation.
In hydrogen fuel cell technology, electricity is generated through a chemical reaction involving hydrogen, emitting only water vapour; this makes it a clean alternative to traditional fuel-based systems.
The Jind-Sonipat rail section in Haryana has been selected as the pilot route for this project. An indigenous hydrogen storage and refuelling facility for the train has also been established in Jind.
The Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation has also granted the necessary licenses for the storage and supply of compressed hydrogen gas.
The Ministry of Railways stated that several safety measures have been implemented to ensure safety, including hydrogen leak detectors, flame detectors, and a 24-hour monitoring system. During the initial phase, trained technical personnel will be present on board the train.
According to the government, this project reflects Indian Railways’ commitment to fostering innovation, energy efficiency, and eco-friendly transportation systems, while also bolstering the country’s clean energy and net-zero carbon emission goals.
