PM Modi to Flag Off India’s First Hydrogen-Powered Train in Haryana, Marking Major Green Rail Milestone
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to flag off India’s first hydrogen-powered train from Jind railway station in Haryana, marking a significant milestone in the country’s transition towards clean and sustainable rail transportation. The hydrogen fuel-cell train will operate on the Jind–Sonipat section of Northern Railway and forms part of Indian Railways’ broader strategy to reduce carbon emissions and promote green mobility.
The launch will make India one of a select group of countries—including Germany, France, China and Japan—to deploy hydrogen-powered passenger rail technology. Unlike conventional diesel trains, the new train generates electricity through hydrogen fuel cells, producing only water vapour and heat as by-products, making it a near-zero-emission mode of transport.
The indigenously developed train consists of 10 coaches, including two hydrogen-powered driving coaches and eight passenger coaches, making it one of the world’s largest hydrogen-powered passenger train configurations. It has been designed and integrated under the ‘Make in India’ initiative and is capable of carrying around 2,600 passengers. The train is designed for a maximum speed of about 110 km/h, with an operational speed of around 75 km/h.
Safety has been a key focus in the development of the project. The train is equipped with multiple safety systems capable of detecting hydrogen leaks, excessive heat, smoke and flames. A dedicated hydrogen production and refuelling facility has also been established at Jind to support regular operations and ensure safe handling of hydrogen fuel.
The hydrogen train is expected to serve as a pilot project for Indian Railways’ clean-energy ambitions. If the technology proves successful in commercial operations, similar hydrogen-powered trains could be introduced on other non-electrified routes, including heritage railway lines, reducing dependence on diesel and contributing to India’s long-term carbon neutrality goals.
During his visit to Haryana, the Prime Minister will also inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for development projects worth approximately ₹14,700 crore, spanning railway infrastructure, roads, urban development and other public works. The hydrogen train launch is expected to be the highlight of the visit, symbolising India’s push towards innovation and environmentally sustainable transportation.
Railway officials have described the project as a technological breakthrough that showcases India’s growing capability to develop advanced rail systems domestically. The success of the hydrogen train could accelerate further investment in alternative-fuel technologies and strengthen the country’s position in the global transition toward greener public transport.
