Green flag to new beginning: Prime Minister flags off India's first hydrogen train

CHANDIGARH: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday flagged off India's first hydrogen-powered train, marking a major milestone in the country's push for green transportation. The indigenously developed hydrogen train began its maiden service from Jind Railway Station in Haryana. It will operate on the 89-km route between Jind and Sonipat. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini were also present at the flag-off ceremony.

The train will operate two round trips daily, covering a total distance of 365 km. Launched on a trial basis, the service has 12 stops along the route. Developed under the Make in India initiative, the train has 10 coaches, making it one of the world's longest hydrogen-powered passenger trains. Two coaches at the front and rear serve as power cars, while the remaining eight are passenger coaches. The train can carry around 2,600 passengers per day.

The hydrogen train is part of Indian Railways' green mobility initiative, aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting environmentally friendly rail transport.

With this launch, India joins countries such as Japan, Germany, the United States, and China in adopting hydrogen-powered technology for public transportation. The project is also part of Indian Railways' goal of becoming a net-zero carbon emitter by 2030.

Officials believe the new technology will reduce diesel consumption, lower fuel costs, and cut carbon emissions. If the trial proves successful, Indian Railways plans to introduce hydrogen-powered trains on other non-electrified railway routes across the country.

How does the hydrogen train work?
Unlike conventional diesel trains, the hydrogen train uses fuel cell technology to generate electricity. The fuel cells produce power by combining hydrogen and oxygen, with water vapour as the only by-product. This significantly reduces pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

According to officials, the train can travel up to 1,200 km on a single hydrogen refill and reach a maximum speed of 110 kmph. The project has been developed by converting existing Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) coaches into hydrogen-powered trains. The upgraded coaches are equipped with hydrogen storage systems, fuel cells, and advanced safety features required for hydrogen operations.