India launches first hydrogen-powered train on Jind-Sonipat route

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday flagged off India’s first hydrogen-powered train on the 89-km Jind-Sonipat route in Haryana under Northern Railway, marking the country’s entry into a select group of nations operating hydrogen-powered trains.

The train will use hydrogen fuel cell technology for the first time in India. Hydrogen fuel cells will generate electricity to power the train, providing a cleaner alternative to diesel-powered services. The project also includes hydrogen storage and refuelling facilities.

Ahead of the launch, Modi posted on X: “India has become one of the select group of nations that have such trains. This will go a long way in ensuring that India adopts clean technology in the railway sector.”

Developed as a pilot project, the train is intended to test hydrogen technology and support future plans for eco-friendly rail travel in India.

The 10-coach hydrogen fuel cell-based trainset is powered by a 1,200 kW hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system. It has a capacity of around 2,600 passengers and is approved to operate at a maximum speed of 75 kmph, with a design speed of 110 kmph.

🚄 Powered by clean energy and driven by innovation, Bharat’s first Hydrogen Train reflects the country’s commitment to sustainable mobility and world-class railway infrastructure. pic.twitter.com/jb0jWOPZuO

— Ashwini Vaishnaw (@AshwiniVaishnaw) July 17, 2026

The train will cover the distance between Jind and Sonipat in about two hours, stopping at 12 intermediate stations. It has been developed from the design stage through prototype manufacturing.

With the launch, India joins countries including Germany, Japan, China and the United States in exploring hydrogen-powered rail transport. Germany pioneered the technology with the Alstom Coradia iLint, while Japan is expected to introduce its first hydrogen hybrid train by the end of fiscal 2027.

The United States launched its first hydrogen-powered passenger train, Zemu, in California in 2024.