PM Modi Flags Off India's First Hydrogen Train, Green Rail Service Begins on Jind–Sonipat Route
India has taken a significant step towards sustainable transportation by launching its first hydrogen fuel cell-powered train. Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the country's first hydrogen-powered train from Jind railway station in Haryana on Friday. The train will operate regularly on the Jind–Sonipat section under Northern Railway.
The train will run on the 89-kilometre route using hydrogen fuel cell technology. Electricity is generated through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, producing only water vapour instead of harmful emissions. This makes the train an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional diesel-powered rail services.
According to Indian Railways, the hydrogen-powered train has been developed under the 'Make in India' initiative. It was manufactured by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai using indigenous technology. A dedicated hydrogen refuelling facility has also been established at Jind to support its operations.
With the launch of this service, India has joined a group of countries that have introduced hydrogen-powered trains, including Germany, Japan, China, and the United States. Experts believe that expanding the use of this technology will help reduce carbon emissions from the railway sector while promoting clean energy in public transportation.
Indian Railways has stated that if the project proves successful, hydrogen-powered trains could gradually be introduced on other suitable railway routes across the country. The initiative is expected to strengthen India's green transport infrastructure and contribute to its long-term environmental and net-zero emission goals.
