India set to launch 1st Indigenous Hydrogen Train on Jind-Sonipat Route

New Delhi: Indian Railways is set to introduce the country’s first indigenous hydrogen fuel cell-based trainset on the Jind-Sonipat section of Northern Railway, marking a major step towards green and sustainable transportation.

The national transporter has approved a 10-car hydrogen-powered train equipped with a 1200 KW hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system. The train will operate at a maximum speed of 75 kmph on the dedicated route in Haryana.

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Hydrogen fuel cell technology generates electricity through a chemical reaction using hydrogen, with water vapour as the only emission, making it a clean alternative to conventional fossil fuel-based railway traction systems.

With the initiative, India joins a select group of countries including Germany, Japan, China and the United States that are exploring or operating hydrogen-powered rail systems for sustainable mobility.

According to the official statement, the Jind-Sonipat section has been identified as the pilot corridor for the project. An indigenous hydrogen storage and refuelling facility has also been established at Jind. The Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) has granted the necessary licence for storage and dispensing of compressed hydrogen gas at the site.

Indian Railways said a hydrogen compression system has been installed for refuelling operations along with technical support systems and critical spare infrastructure to ensure reliable and fail-safe functioning. A standby compressor unit is also being arranged as part of operational preparedness.

The railway network has further put in place multiple safety mechanisms, including hydrogen leak detectors and flame detectors at the hydrogen production, storage and dispensing facilities. These systems will undergo regular inspections and maintenance to ensure safe operations.

The Research Design and Standards Organisation (RDSO) has approved operation and maintenance manuals for both the hydrogen train-set and hydrogen plant. Safety provisions, regular audits and standard operating procedures are also being implemented at the maintenance facility in Shakurbasti.

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The approval additionally mandates round-the-clock monitoring of the hydrogen refuelling system, deployment of trained and certified personnel for critical operations, and regular inspection schedules. During the initial phase, trained technical staff will accompany the train to ensure smooth functioning.

Indian Railways said the project aligns with its broader focus on innovation, energy efficiency and environmentally sustainable transportation while supporting India’s clean energy transition and net-zero carbon emission goals.

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