Indian Railways is preparing to launch the country’s first hydrogen-powered train, marking a major milestone in India’s clean energy and sustainable transport ambitions. The Railway Board has approved a 10-coach hydrogen fuel cell-based trainset for operations on the Jind-Sonipat section in Haryana under the Northern Railway zone.
The train will be powered by a 1,200 KW hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system and is expected to operate at a maximum speed of 75 kmph. Unlike conventional diesel-powered trains, hydrogen trains emit only water vapor, making them a cleaner alternative aimed at reducing carbon emissions in the railway sector.
The hydrogen train project is part of Indian Railways’ broader green mobility strategy and aligns with India’s long-term net-zero and clean energy goals. Railway officials have previously stated that the country plans to develop multiple hydrogen-powered trains under its “Hydrogen for Heritage” initiative focused on environmentally sustainable transport systems.
India had successfully tested its first hydrogen-powered coach at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai in 2025, paving the way for commercial deployment. The project places India among a small group of nations actively investing in hydrogen-based rail technology, alongside countries such as Germany and Japan.
Industry experts believe hydrogen-powered trains could become an important solution for rail routes where full electrification is difficult or expensive. The technology is also expected to help Indian Railways reduce dependence on fossil fuels while improving energy efficiency and environmental sustainability in the long term.
