India launches its first hydrogen-powered train, advancing green rail transport

Friday 17 July 2026 - 09:15

By: Sahili Aya

India launches its first hydrogen-powered train, advancing green rail transport

India has launched its first hydrogen-powered passenger train, becoming one of a small group of countries operating rail services powered by hydrogen fuel cells.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the train on Friday in the northern state of Haryana, marking a significant milestone in the country's efforts to modernize its railway network and reduce carbon emissions.

With the launch, India joins countries including Germany, Japan, China and the United States that have introduced hydrogen-powered trains as part of their sustainable transportation strategies.

Hydrogen technology offers zero-emission alternative

Unlike conventional diesel locomotives, hydrogen-powered trains generate electricity through fuel cells, producing only heat and water vapor as by-products during operation.

The new 10-coach train, known as Namo Green Rail, has a capacity of approximately 2,600 passengers and will operate twice daily on a 90-kilometer route connecting Jind and Sonipat in Haryana, near the national capital, Delhi.

Designed, engineered and manufactured entirely in India, the train is powered by a 1,200-kilowatt hydrogen fuel-cell propulsion system and has a maximum operating speed of 75 kilometers per hour.

Part of India's broader railway modernization

The hydrogen train forms part of India's wider strategy to modernize one of the world's largest railway systems while reducing its environmental impact.

According to the government, the project combines advanced propulsion technology with dedicated hydrogen storage, refueling facilities and supporting operational infrastructure.

Officials view the initiative as an important step toward diversifying clean transport technologies alongside the country's extensive railway electrification program.

Supporting India's net-zero ambitions

Indian Railways has already electrified nearly all of its 70,000-kilometer broad-gauge network as part of its objective to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2030.

During the inauguration ceremony, Modi said India would continue investing in technologies that improve efficiency, reduce operating costs and expand sustainable transportation across the country.

The successful deployment of hydrogen-powered rail services could provide another pathway for reducing emissions on routes where full electrification may be less practical, reinforcing India's long-term commitment to cleaner mobility solutions.