India's First Hydrogen-Powered Train: Features, Route and Significance

Indian Railways is set to roll out the country's first indigenous hydrogen-powered train on July 17, 2026. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to flag off the service from Jind railway station in Haryana, running on the Jind-Sonipat route. With this launch, India joins Germany, Japan, China, and the US in the small group of countries operating hydrogen trains.

Features of India's First Hydrogen Fuel Cell Trainset

1. 10-car set powered by a 1200 kW hydrogen fuel cell system, with two power cars and eight coaches carrying fuel cells, batteries and hydrogen cylinders
2. Approved to run at 75 kmph, with a design speed of up to 110 kmph
3. Can carry around 2,600 passengers
4. Runs on a Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell, which generates electricity by reacting hydrogen with oxygen, releasing only water vapour and heat
5. Hydrogen carries far more energy per kilogram than diesel, making the system cleaner and lower-maintenance
6. Country's largest hydrogen storage and refuelling facility set up at Jind, holding nearly 3,000 kg of hydrogen
7. Refuelling site licensed by the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation, built to NFPA-2 and ISO 19880 standards, and assessed by Germany's TÜV SÜD
8. Backed by round-the-clock safety monitoring, leak and flame detectors, and automatic hydrogen cut-off in case of heat, flame or smoke
9. Maintenance to be handled at the Shakurbasti facility in Delhi, with trained staff accompanying the train initially

India's first hydrogen train to run on Jind-Sonipat route

The train will connect Jind Junction, Gohana Junction and Sonipat, with stops at Jind City, Pandu Pindara, Lalit Khera, Bhambhewa, Isapur Kheri, Butane, Khandrai, Rabrah, Lath, Mohana, Barwasni and Sonipat New.

Why Hydrogen Train Matters in India

Beyond being a single train, the project builds the infrastructure, safety systems, and technical skills needed for future hydrogen rail expansion across India. It supports the National Green Hydrogen Mission and India's net-zero commitments, while helping validate operating and maintenance practices for a more sustainable, diesel-free rail network going forward.