New Delhi: Indian Railways approved the introduction of an indigenous hydrogen train on the Jind-Sonipat section of Northern Railway as part of its clean and sustainable transport initiative.
Officials said the 10-car trainset would begin operations soon on the Haryana route. The train will operate at a maximum speed of 75 kmph using a 1200 KW hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system.
The project marked a major step in India’s push towards greener transport systems and reduced carbon emissions in the railway sector.
Hydrogen fuel cell technology generates electricity through a chemical reaction using hydrogen. The process releases only water vapour, making it a cleaner alternative to fossil fuel-based railway traction systems.
With the project, India joined countries such as Germany, Japan, China and the United States that are exploring hydrogen-powered rail transportation systems.
Officials identified the Jind-Sonipat section in Haryana as the pilot route for the operations. Indian Railways also established an indigenous hydrogen storage and refuelling facility at Jind for the trainset.
The Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation granted the required licence for hydrogen storage and dispensing operations at the site.
Railway authorities installed a hydrogen compression system for refuelling operations. Officials also arranged technical support systems and critical spare equipment to ensure smooth functioning.
Authorities said trained personnel would monitor the hydrogen refuelling system round the clock during the initial phase of operations.
Hydrogen train project includes advanced safety systems
Officials stated that the project included several safety mechanisms to ensure secure operations on the route.
The railway system includes hydrogen leak detectors, flame detectors and other monitoring sensors at the hydrogen production, storage and dispensing facility.
Authorities said officials would inspect and clean the safety systems regularly to prevent operational risks caused by dust accumulation or technical faults.
Indian Railways also prepared operation and maintenance manuals approved by the Research Designs and Standards Organisation for the trainset and hydrogen plant.
Meanwhile, authorities introduced maintenance and safety protocols at the Shakurbasti facility linked to the project.
During the initial operations, trained technical staff will travel on board to monitor the system and address any technical issues immediately.
Officials said the initiative reflected Indian Railways’ broader focus on innovation, energy efficiency and environmentally sustainable public transport systems.
The project also supports India’s clean energy goals and long-term net-zero carbon emission targets.
