Jind-Sonipat Hydrogen Train travelled 1200 kms; 3,000 litres of diesel exhaust replaced with water vapours

India's first hydrogen-powered train has successfully travelled more than 1,200 kilometres since it was flagged off on 17 July, marking another milestone in the country's push towards cleaner and more sustainable rail transport.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Railways, the train has already saved more than 3,200 litres of diesel during its operations between Jind and Sonipat in Haryana.

The successful trials have paved the way for the next phase, with testing on the Delhi route expected to begin soon.

India's first hydrogen train achieves 1,200 km milestone

Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off India's first hydrogen-powered train from Jind, Haryana, on 17 July under the Centre's Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

Since entering service, the train has covered over 1,200 km without major issues while significantly reducing fossil fuel consumption, according to the Railway Ministry.

The ministry said the project demonstrates India's growing capability to develop advanced railway technology domestically while reducing carbon emissions.

How does the hydrogen train work?

Unlike conventional diesel locomotives, the hydrogen train generates electricity onboard through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen inside fuel cells.

The electricity produced powers the train's motors, while the only by-product released into the atmosphere is water vapour.

Because there is no combustion, the train produces no smoke and no tailpipe carbon emissions, making it one of the cleanest forms of rail transport currently available.

Indigenous technology developed by Indian Railways

The hydrogen train has been developed entirely as an indigenous project by Indian Railways.

It comprises 10 passenger coaches and two Hydrogen Driving Power Cars, together producing 2,400 kW of power.

The propulsion system is supported by lithium iron phosphate batteries, which help improve efficiency and ensure smooth operations.

Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has described the project as a landmark achievement, noting that the propulsion technology has been developed within India.

Hydrogen storage and refuelling system

The project has also created Indian Railways' first dedicated hydrogen storage and refuelling facility at Jind.

According to the Railway Ministry, hydrogen is stored at pressures of up to 500 bar and dispensed at 350 bar.

The facility has a storage capacity of around 3,000 kilograms of green hydrogen, enabling regular operations of the hydrogen-powered train.

Safety features built into the train
The Railway Ministry said multiple safety mechanisms have been incorporated into the project.

These include:

• Independent hydrogen leak detection systems
• Heat, flame and smoke sensors
• Automatic emergency shut-off systems
• Continuous ventilation
• Compliance with international safety standards
• Mandatory technical validations before operations

The ministry said these systems are designed to ensure safe operation of hydrogen-powered trains under Indian conditions.

Delhi trials to begin soon

Following the successful operations between Jind and Sonipat, Indian Railways is preparing to begin trial runs on the Delhi route.

Officials believe the project will help establish an indigenous hydrogen rail ecosystem and lay the foundation for wider adoption of hydrogen-powered trains across the country.

The Railway Ministry said the initiative reflects India's commitment to developing zero-emission rail mobility while strengthening domestic manufacturing capabilities and positioning the country as a leader in clean transportation.