New Delhi: India’s first hydrogen-powered train is now closer to launch after the Railway Board approved a 10-coach hydrogen fuel cell train for the Jind-Sonipat route in Haryana.
The project is part of Indian Railways’ green transport mission and aims to reduce pollution and diesel dependence in the country.
What Is the Indian Railways Hydrogen Train Project?
The Ministry of Railways has approved the operation of a hydrogen fuel cell-based train on the Northern Railway section between Jind and Sonipat.
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Key Highlights
- 10-coach hydrogen train approved
- Route: Jind-Sonipat section in Haryana
- Maximum speed: 75 kmph
- Powered by a 1,200 KW hydrogen fuel cell system
- Water vapour will be the only direct emission
- Project developed under Indian Railways’ clean energy plan
How Hydrogen Train Technology Works
Hydrogen trains use fuel cells to create electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen.
Main Benefits
- No diesel use
- Lower carbon emissions
- Cleaner railway transport
- Less noise pollution
- Better option for non-electrified routes
The only by-product from the fuel cell process is water vapour, making the technology environmentally friendly.
Indian Railways Hydrogen Train Project: Why Jind-Sonipat Route Was Selected
The Jind-Sonipat railway section was selected because the region already has hydrogen storage and refuelling infrastructure.
Important Infrastructure
- Hydrogen production and storage facility at Jind
- Dedicated operational section
- Safety monitoring systems installed
- Hydrogen leak and flame detectors added
Officials said the route is suitable for testing advanced green rail technology in real operating conditions.
Indian Railways Hydrogen Train Project: Safety Measures Planned by Indian Railways
The Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) has granted permissions for hydrogen storage and dispensing systems.
Safety Features Include
- Hydrogen leak detectors
- Fire and flame sensors
- Regular inspection systems
- Controlled refuelling process
- Secure storage arrangements
Railways officials stated that strict monitoring will be followed before full commercial operations begin.
India Joins Global Hydrogen Train Race
With this project, India joins countries like Germany, Japan, China, and the United States that are exploring hydrogen-based rail systems.
Germany already operates commercial hydrogen trains, while several countries are testing similar systems for cleaner transportation.
Government’s Green Railway Vision
Indian Railways is working on reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable transport.
Long-Term Goals
- Reduce diesel dependency
- Expand green mobility solutions
- Support net-zero emission goals
- Improve clean public transport
- Introduce hydrogen trains on heritage and hill routes in future
Reports suggest the government earlier allocated nearly ₹2,800 crore for the development of multiple hydrogen-powered trains.
