India's First Hydrogen-Powered Train

planned for operation

India's first indigenously built hydrogen-powered train, a 10-coach broad-gauge train, is set to begin its maiden journey on July 17, 2026, from Jind railway station. The train is part of the 'Hydrogen for Heritage' initiative, aiming to introduce 35 hydrogen-powered trains on heritage, hill, and other non-electrified routes where electrification is difficult or uneconomical. The project supports India's goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2030 and promotes the National Green Hydrogen Mission. The train uses a 1,200 kW hydrogen fuel-cell propulsion system and carries about 440 kg of hydrogen stored in compressed gas cylinders. The project was conceived in 2020-21, with a pilot retrofit of a Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) rake on the 89-km Jind–Sonepat section. The trainset was completed in December 2025 and received operational approval in May 2026 after successful trials.