India is set to achieve a major milestone in sustainable rail transportation as Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to flag off the country’s first hydrogen-powered train from Jind, Haryana, on July 17. The launch marks a significant step in Indian Railways’ efforts to adopt cleaner technologies and reduce carbon emissions across its network.
The hydrogen train has been developed as part of Indian Railways’ broader green mobility strategy, which focuses on introducing environmentally friendly propulsion systems alongside the ongoing electrification of the national rail network. Powered by hydrogen fuel cells, the train produces electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, with water vapour being the only direct emission.
The introduction of hydrogen-powered trains is expected to provide a clean alternative for routes where full electrification may not be immediately feasible. In addition to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, hydrogen technology is expected to lower noise levels, improve energy efficiency, and decrease dependence on fossil fuels.
The project aligns with the Government of India’s commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions and expanding the use of green hydrogen under the National Green Hydrogen Mission. Indian Railways has identified hydrogen-powered trains as an important component of its long-term strategy to modernise operations while supporting the country’s clean energy transition.
The train is expected to operate initially on a designated heritage or regional route, allowing Indian Railways to evaluate the performance, efficiency, and operational reliability of hydrogen fuel cell technology under Indian conditions. Lessons from the pilot project are expected to guide the future deployment of hydrogen-powered rolling stock across other suitable routes.
Industry experts believe the launch could accelerate the development of India’s hydrogen ecosystem by encouraging investments in hydrogen production, refuelling infrastructure, fuel cell technology, and related manufacturing capabilities. The initiative is also expected to create opportunities for domestic technology development under the government’s “Make in India” programme.
With the launch of its first hydrogen train, India joins a growing number of countries exploring hydrogen-powered rail transport as a sustainable mobility solution. The project underscores Indian Railways’ commitment to innovation, decarbonisation, and the adoption of next-generation technologies to build a greener and more efficient transportation network.
