New Delhi, May 27 In a major push towards green and sustainable transport, Indian Railways has approved the introduction of a 10-car hydrogen fuel cell-based trainset on the Jind-Sonipat section of Northern Railway in Haryana.
The train, expected to begin operations soon, will run at a maximum speed of 75 kmph and be powered by a 1200 KW hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system.
Hydrogen fuel cell technology generates electricity through a chemical reaction using hydrogen, with water vapour as the only emission, making it a cleaner alternative to conventional fossil fuel-based rail systems. With this initiative, India joins countries such as Germany, Japan, China and the United States that are exploring hydrogen-powered rail transport.
The Jind-Sonipat route has been selected as the pilot corridor, with an indigenous hydrogen storage and refuelling facility already established at Jind. The Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) has granted the required licence for hydrogen storage and dispensing.
Indian Railways has put in place comprehensive safety and operational measures, including hydrogen leak and flame detection systems, 24×7 monitoring of refuelling operations, deployment of trained personnel and regular inspections. During the initial phase, technical staff will accompany the train to ensure smooth and safe operations.
The project reflects Indian Railways’ commitment to clean energy, innovation and net-zero carbon goals, marking an important step in the development of hydrogen-based mobility in India.
