Indian Railways has inaugurated the country's first hydrogen fuel cell-powered train, which will commence operations on the Jind–Sonipat section of Northern Railway from 17 July 2026. Developed entirely in India, the 10-coach train is powered by a 1,200 kW hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system, carries around 2,600 passengers, and operates at speeds of up to 75 km/h.
The project includes India's largest railway hydrogen storage and refuelling facility at Jind, Haryana, capable of storing 3,000 kg of hydrogen. Built to international safety standards, the ecosystem features advanced hydrogen leak detection, automated safety systems and continuous monitoring.
Using Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) technology, the train generates electricity onboard, producing only water vapour and heat as by-products.
By joining countries such as Germany, Japan and China in adopting hydrogen-powered rail, India has taken a significant step towards low-carbon mobility, supporting the National Green Hydrogen Mission and the long-term decarbonisation of its railway network.
Technology
Jul 17, 2026
India Launches First Hydrogen-Powered Train, Marking a Milestone in Green Rail Mobility
India has entered the global hydrogen rail era with the launch of its first indigenous hydrogen-powered train, demonstrating how clean propulsion technologies can accelerate the decarbonisation of public transport.
