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IIE Digital Desk: A major breakthrough in sustainable transportation has occurred with the introduction of India's first-ever hydrogen-powered passenger train. The first-ever service from Jind in Haryana was officially launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, making it the first country to use hydrogen fuel-cell technology for railways. This development has been recognized as an important step towards achieving greener and more energy-efficient public transport.

A new NaMo Green Rail project, covering 89 kilometres, will be built on the Jind-Sonipat route under Northern Railway. Powered by hydrogen fuel cells, the train produces no harmful emissions except for water vapour. The project is anticipated to play a significant role in decreasing carbon emissions in the railway sector. The train has 10 coaches and is powered by two hydrogen-powered engines, each capable of producing 1,200 kW of power. It's one of the world' best hydrogen-powered passenger trains, with a total carrying capacity of almost 2,600 and able to hold up to 682 passengers. The railway company will run two round trips daily between Jind and Sonipat, covering approximately 356 kilometres per day, as per officials.

Although speeds were higher during testing, the train's operating speed has been set at 75 kmph for commercial services. To support the project, Indian Railways has set up a state-of-the–art hydrogen storage and refuelling plant in Jind to ensure smooth and uninterrupted operations.

The project has emphasized the importance of passenger safety. The train has been equipped with advanced monitoring systems that can detect hydrogen leaks, excessive heat, smoke, and fire hazards. The project has been equipped with safety mechanisms to ensure uninterrupted operation in all climatic conditions. Prime Minister Modi expressed his pride in the project being a milestone for India's clean-energy initiative during the inauguration. The launch, he said, is an indication of the country's commitment to innovation, sustainability and self-reliance under the "Make in India " campaign. The development of the train has been facilitated by collaboration between the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO), Integral Coach Factory (ICF), and Medha Servo Drives, using indigenous technology.

Increasingly, there is a recognition worldwide that hydrogen trains can help reduce the dependence on fossil fuels, especially in areas where electrification is not yet fully realized. The success of this project could lead to the implementation of similar services in other areas of the country, as per experts.

With the launch of India's first hydrogen-powered train, it is clear that the country is moving towards a more sustainable future. It is a good step in creating "an environmentally friendly, more efficient and cleaner transportation network for tomorrow" as the country becomes more eco-friendly.

From Jind tomorrow, India’s first hydrogen-powered train will be flagged off, which will connect Jind and Sonipat. India becomes one of the select group of nations that have such trains. This will go a long way in ensuring that India adopts clean technology in the railway sector.…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 16, 2026