India’s First Hydrogen Train Completes 900-Km Trial

India’s first indigenous hydrogen-powered passenger train completed over 900 km of operations on the Jind-Sonipat route in Haryana on 23 July 2026. The train runs on the 89-km Jind-Sonipat section of Northern Railway and was flagged off on 17 July 2026.

Hydrogen Fuel Cell Train Technology

A hydrogen fuel cell train uses hydrogen and oxygen in fuel cells to generate electricity on board. The process produces water vapour and heat as by-products. The train in Haryana has 10 coaches, including two Hydrogen Driving Power Cars and eight Trailer Coaches. The train uses two 1,200-kilowatt hydrogen-electric propulsion systems. Its design speed is 110 kmph, and its approved maximum operational speed is 75 kmph. The passenger capacity is around 2,600.

Jind Hydrogen Storage and Refuelling Facility

India’s largest railway hydrogen storage and refuelling facility is located at Jind in Haryana. The facility has a storage capacity of nearly 3,000 kg of hydrogen and has received a licence from the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation. The Jind facility supports train operations on the Northern Railway corridor and is linked to the hydrogen-powered passenger service on the Jind-Sonipat route.

Trial Route and Safety Testing

Earlier trials were conducted between Delhi and Jind on 27 June 2026. The trial tests included emergency braking and train oscillation parameters. The 89-km route in Haryana forms part of the operational testing zone for India’s first indigenous hydrogen train.

Important Facts for Exams

• Hydrogen fuel cell trains are also called zero-emission trains because they emit water vapour at the point of use.
• Germany, Japan, China and the United States are among the countries that have explored hydrogen-powered rail transport.
• The National Green Hydrogen Mission is linked with India’s target of net-zero emissions by 2070.
• Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation is the Indian authority that regulates safety licences for explosives and compressed gases.

Railway Hydrogen Projects in India

India’s hydrogen train project is part of railway electrification and alternative-fuel experiments in the transport sector. The train is an indigenous development and uses hydrogen-electric propulsion technology.