Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday flagged off India's first hydrogen-powered passenger train from Jind to Sonipat, marking a major milestone in the country's transition toward clean and sustainable transportation.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister said only a handful of countries currently possess the capability to operate hydrogen-powered passenger trains. He added that India's newly launched train is among the world's strongest and longest hydrogen-powered passenger trainsets.

Designed and Built with Indigenous Technology

The Hydrogen Fuel Cell Trainset has been designed, engineered and integrated in India using indigenous technology. The project highlights India's growing capabilities in advanced railway engineering and supports the government's focus on self-reliance in transport technology.

The train successfully completed its inaugural journey, operating smoothly while offering passengers a quieter and more comfortable travel experience.

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Unlike conventional electric trains that depend on overhead power lines, the hydrogen train produces electricity onboard through fuel cells.

Hydrogen reacts with oxygen from the atmosphere inside the fuel cells to generate electricity, while the only by-products are water vapour and heat. Since there is no combustion of fossil fuels, the train produces zero tailpipe carbon emissions during operation.

The technology also reduces dependence on electricity generated from coal-based thermal power plants, making it an environmentally friendly transportation solution.

Advanced Safety and High Performance

The hydrogen-powered train is equipped with advanced multi-layer safety systems capable of detecting hydrogen leaks, heat, flames and smoke. If any abnormality is detected, the onboard system can automatically isolate the hydrogen supply to enhance passenger safety.

The train features a 10-coach configuration, making it one of the longest hydrogen-powered passenger trains developed globally. Its 3,200-horsepower propulsion system places it among the most powerful hydrogen trainsets currently in operation.

The train has an operational speed of 75 km/h and a design speed of 110 km/h, allowing efficient passenger services on the 89-kilometre Jind–Sonipat route.

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Boost for Green Mobility

The launch represents a significant step in India's efforts to modernise its railway network through clean-energy technology. Hydrogen-powered trains offer a sustainable alternative for routes where full electrification may not be practical while helping reduce emissions and fuel imports.

The project also establishes India's first integrated hydrogen railway ecosystem at Jind, including dedicated hydrogen storage and refuelling infrastructure.

India Expands Sustainable Transport

With the successful launch of its first hydrogen-powered passenger train, India has entered a select group of nations exploring hydrogen-based rail transport. The initiative is expected to support the country's long-term goals of cleaner mobility, technological innovation and sustainable infrastructure development.