PM Narendra Modi Flags Off India’s First Hydrogen-Powered Train in Haryana, Marking a New Era in Green Rail Transport

Jind, Haryana | July 17, 2026: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday flagged off India’s first hydrogen-powered passenger train connecting Jind and Sonipat in Haryana, marking a historic milestone in the country’s journey towards sustainable and clean transportation. With the launch, India joins a select group of nations operating hydrogen-powered trains, reinforcing its commitment to green mobility and technological innovation in the railway sector.

The inaugural ceremony at Jind Railway Station was attended by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Haryana Governor Ashim Kumar Ghosh, Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini, senior railway officials, and hundreds of enthusiastic citizens. School children were among the first passengers onboard as the Prime Minister flagged off the train.

A Landmark in Sustainable Rail Transport

Designed, engineered, and integrated entirely in India, the hydrogen-powered train showcases the country’s growing capabilities in advanced railway engineering and indigenous technology development. The train operates on hydrogen fuel cell technology, which converts hydrogen into electricity to power the locomotive. The only by-product of this process is water vapour, making the train a zero-carbon emission mode of transport during operation.

The launch aligns with the Government of India’s vision of promoting clean energy, reducing dependence on fossil fuels, and achieving long-term environmental sustainability under the National Green Hydrogen Mission.

Route and Operations

The hydrogen-powered train will operate on the 89-kilometre Jind–Sonipat route, covering the journey in approximately two hours while stopping at 12 intermediate stations. The service is expected to improve regional connectivity while serving as a pilot project for the future deployment of hydrogen-powered trains across the country.

Advanced Features

India’s first hydrogen-powered train has several notable features that make it one of the most advanced in the world:

• 10-coach configuration, making it among the world’s longest hydrogen-powered passenger trains.
• 3,200 HP propulsion system, placing it among the most powerful hydrogen-powered train sets currently in operation.
• Powered by indigenous hydrogen fuel cell technology.
• Produces zero carbon emissions, with only water vapour released during operation.
• Operates with significantly lower noise levels than conventional diesel trains.
• Eliminates dependence on diesel fuel and reduces fossil fuel imports.
• Does not require continuous overhead electrification, as electricity is generated onboard through hydrogen fuel cells.

Supporting India’s Green Hydrogen Mission

The introduction of hydrogen-powered rail transport is expected to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions while supporting India’s broader renewable energy goals. The use of green hydrogen also reduces reliance on electricity generated by fossil fuel-based thermal power plants, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable transportation ecosystem.

Railway officials indicated that the successful operation of the Jind–Sonipat service will pave the way for similar hydrogen-powered trains on other heritage and non-electrified railway routes across India in the coming years.

The launch represents another significant step in the modernization of Indian Railways, combining cutting-edge technology with environmental responsibility and strengthening India’s position as an emerging global leader in sustainable transportation.