India has taken a significant step towards sustainable transportation with the introduction of its first indigenously developed hydrogen-powered train, marking a major milestone in the country’s clean mobility journey. The hydrogen fuel cell-powered train will operate on the Jind–Sonipat section of Northern Railway, demonstrating India’s growing focus on zero-emission rail technologies.
Developed entirely in India in line with specifications approved by the Research Design & Standards Organisation (RDSO), the project supports the country’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat while advancing its decarbonisation objectives. With this initiative, India joins a select group of countries exploring hydrogen-powered rail transport as an alternative to conventional diesel traction.
The 10-coach hydrogen fuel cell train is powered by a 1,200 kW Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) propulsion system and is designed to accommodate approximately 2,600 passengers. The train has an approved operating speed of 75 kmph and a design speed of 110 kmph, connecting Jind Junction and Sonipat through multiple intermediate stations.
Hydrogen fuel cells generate electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, producing only water vapour and heat as by-products. With an energy density of 120 MJ/kg, compared to 43 MJ/kg for diesel, hydrogen offers a cleaner and more energy-efficient solution for railway operations.
To support the project, Indian Railways has established the country’s largest railway hydrogen storage and refuelling facility at Jind, Haryana, with a storage capacity of nearly 3,000 kg of hydrogen. The facility has been developed in accordance with international safety standards, including NFPA-2 and the ISO 19880 Series, and incorporates advanced safety systems for hydrogen handling and refuelling.
The train consists of two Hydrogen Driving Power Cars (DPCs) and eight Trailer Coaches, equipped with hydrogen fuel cells, lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, and onboard hydrogen storage cylinders. The project also features a comprehensive safety framework, including hydrogen leak detection, flame detection, continuous ventilation, automated hydrogen isolation systems, and round-the-clock monitoring of the refuelling infrastructure.
The hydrogen train is expected to serve as a pilot for validating hydrogen propulsion technology, operational procedures, and maintenance practices while strengthening India’s capabilities in clean transportation. The initiative also aligns with the National Green Hydrogen Mission and supports the country’s long-term goal of building a low-carbon, sustainable mobility ecosystem.
