( Economy India ): Prime Minister Narendra Modi has inaugurated India’s first hydrogen-powered train, marking a major milestone in the country’s journey toward cleaner and more sustainable transportation. The train was flagged off from Jind railway station in Haryana and will initially operate on the Jind–Sonipat route under Northern Railway.
The hydrogen-powered train uses hydrogen fuel cell technology to generate electricity onboard instead of relying on diesel engines. The only direct emission from the fuel cells is water vapour, making the train a cleaner alternative for railway operations on routes that are not fully electrified.
The indigenously developed train consists of two hydrogen-powered driving cars and eight passenger coaches, with a capacity to carry around 2,600 passengers. It is designed for higher speeds but will initially operate at a maximum speed of 75 km/h on the Jind–Sonipat section. The project also includes dedicated hydrogen storage, refuelling infrastructure, and multiple safety systems to detect hydrogen leaks, heat, flames, and smoke.
The launch places India among a select group of countries operating hydrogen-powered trains and reflects the government’s focus on green hydrogen, clean energy, and sustainable infrastructure. The initiative is also expected to support India’s long-term target of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070.
( Economy India )
