In a historic leap toward sustainable transportation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off India’s first-ever hydrogen-powered passenger train, named the NaMo Green Rail, from Jind, Haryana. Operating on the Jind–Sonipat route, this pioneering train marks India's entry into a select elite global group exploring hydrogen fuel cell technology for clean rail transit.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-launches-first-hydrogen-powered-train-pm-modi-flags-off-green-rail-revolution-1784269617678/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-launches-first-hydrogen-powered-train-pm-modi-flags-off-green-rail-revolution-1784269617678/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Speaking at the ceremony, PM Modi said, "... Not only is this Indian hydrogen train emission-free, but it is also a highly successful example of the 'Make in India' initiative... In the near future, further infrastructure related to hydrogen trains will be developed here. New factories will be set up to cater to the needs of the hydrogen train network. In other words, this train is bound to create numerous new employment opportunities for the youth of Haryana."&nbsp;<h3>How is a hydrogen train different from a diesel-electricity powered train?</h3>Both types are essentially electric trains, but they differ entirely in how they generate that electricity. In a diesel-electric train, the&nbsp;engine burns fuel to spin a large alternator, which generates the electricity used to power the traction motors. This process releases carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter.&nbsp;&nbsp;While hydrogen fuel cell trains&nbsp;use onboard hydrogen fuel cells instead of burning anything. Hydrogen from onboard tanks combines with oxygen from the outside air in a chemical reaction that generates electricity. Pure water vapour and heat are the only byproducts of this process.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-pm-modi-japan-pm-sanae-takaichi-exchange-warm-handshake-as-india-japan-summit-begins-what-it-signifies-1782968755332">Watch: PM Modi, Japan PM Sanae Takaichi exchange warm handshake as India-Japan summit begins: What it signifies</a><h3>How much pollution can a hydrogen train reduce compared to diesel trains?</h3>At the point of operation, a hydrogen train reduces 100% of direct tailpipe emissions because it emits nothing but water vapour. However, the total lifecycle pollution reduction depends heavily on how the hydrogen is manufactured.<ul><li>Green Hydrogen: If the hydrogen is produced via electrolysis powered by renewable energy (like wind or solar), the lifecycle carbon footprint is zero. &nbsp;</li><li>Grey/Blue Hydrogen: If the hydrogen is produced using traditional natural gas reforming, lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions are still roughly 45% lower than operating a standard diesel locomotive.&nbsp;</li></ul><h3>What is the top speed of a hydrogen train, and is it as powerful as a diesel locomotive?</h3>Commercial passenger models, such as Alstom's Coradia iLint, generally operate at top speeds of 140 km/h. Currently, hydrogen fuel cell systems are highly efficient for lighter regional passenger fleets but are less powerful than heavy-duty diesel locomotives. Because hydrogen requires a massive amount of physical storage volume, matching the immense tractive power required for heavy freight trains over long distances remains a significant engineering hurdle.<h3>How far can a hydrogen train travel on a single tank of hydrogen?</h3>Standard regional hydrogen passenger trains generally feature an operational range of 600 to 1,000 kilometers on a single fill. In 2022, a modified Alstom Coradia iLint set a world record by traveling 1,175 kilometers on a single tank of hydrogen during a promotional run. Smaller or retrofitted passenger configurations, such as pilot trains designed for shorter regional lines, often operate with ranges closer to 250 kilometers per cycle.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h3>How long does it take to refuel a hydrogen train compared to charging an electric train?</h3>Refueling a hydrogen train takes roughly 15 to 20 minutes extending up to 60 minutes for large-capacity fleet. This allows it to quickly return to service, mimicking traditional diesel logistics.&nbsp;&nbsp;Pure battery-electric trains used on non-electrified tracks require anywhere from several hours for a full depot charge to 20–30 minutes using fast-charging stations, which can disrupt standard route schedules. But the conventional electric trains running continuously on overhead catenary wires do not require refueling downtime at all.&nbsp;<h3>Which countries already operate or deploy hydrogen trains?</h3><ul><li>Germany: The global pioneer, having launched the world's first fully commercial, regular passenger service using a fleet of hydrogen trains in Lower Saxony.&nbsp;</li><li>China: Has developed and successfully deployed multiple fuel cell variants, including urban digital transits and regional locomotives.</li><li>India: Has actively entered the space by retrofitting older rolling stock into hydrogen fuel-cell setups, deploying pilot passenger runs on dedicated regional test tracks like the Jind–Sonipat corridor.&nbsp;</li><li>Japan &amp; United States: Both nations currently run active, localised pilot routes, testing small passenger fleets for regional transit authorities.</li></ul><h3>Key Features of the Hydrogen-Powered Train on the Jind-Sonipat Section</h3><ul><li>10-car&nbsp;hydrogen fuel cell-based trainset.</li><li>Powered by a&nbsp;1200 kW&nbsp;hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system.</li><li>Approved to operate at a maximum speed of&nbsp;75 km/h&nbsp;with a design speed of&nbsp;110 km/h.</li><li>Capacity of around&nbsp;2,600&nbsp;passengers.</li><li>Developed from the&nbsp;design stage&nbsp;through&nbsp;prototype manufacturing.</li><li>It will connect Jind Junction, Gohana Junction, and Sonipat while serving intermediate stations.</li><li>Proposed halts include Jind City, Pandu Pindara Junction, Lalit Khera Halt, Bhambhewa, Isapur Kheri Halt, Butane Halt, Khandrai Halt, Rabrah Halt, Lath Halt, Mohana, Barwasni Halt and Sonipat New.</li></ul>

PM Modi has inaugurated India's first indigenous hydrogen-powered train on the Jind-Sonipat route. Learn how this 3,200 HP green fuel cell technology replaces diesel to generate clean electricity onboard with zero carbon emissions.

In a historic leap toward sustainable transportation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off India’s first-ever hydrogen-powered passenger train, named the NaMo Green Rail, from Jind, Haryana. Operating on the Jind–Sonipat route, this pioneering train marks India's entry into a select elite global group exploring hydrogen fuel cell technology for clean rail transit. https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-launches-first-hydrogen-powered-train-pm-modi-flags-off-green-rail-revolution-1784269617678/embed Speaking at the ceremony, PM Modi said, "... Not only is this Indian hydrogen train emission-free, but it is also a highly successful example of the 'Make in India' initiative... In the near future, further infrastructure related to hydrogen trains will be developed here. New factories will be set up to cater to the needs of the hydrogen train network. In other words, this train is bound to create numerous new employment opportunities for the youth of Haryana." How is a hydrogen train different from a diesel-electricity powered train? Both types are essentially electric trains, but they differ entirely in how they generate that electricity. In a diesel-electric train, the engine burns fuel to spin a large alternator, which generates the electricity used to power the traction motors. This process releases carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. While hydrogen fuel cell trains use onboard hydrogen fuel cells instead of burning anything. Hydrogen from onboard tanks combines with oxygen from the outside air in a chemical reaction that generates electricity. Pure water vapour and heat are the only byproducts of this process. Also read: Watch: PM Modi, Japan PM Sanae Takaichi exchange warm handshake as India-Japan summit begins: What it signifies How much pollution can a hydrogen train reduce compared to diesel trains? At the point of operation, a hydrogen train reduces 100% of direct tailpipe emissions because it emits nothing but water vapour. However, the total lifecycle pollution reduction depends heavily on how the hydrogen is manufactured. Green Hydrogen: If the hydrogen is produced via electrolysis powered by renewable energy (like wind or solar), the lifecycle carbon footprint is zero. Grey/Blue Hydrogen: If the hydrogen is produced using traditional natural gas reforming, lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions are still roughly 45% lower than operating a standard diesel locomotive. What is the top speed of a hydrogen train, and is it as powerful as a diesel locomotive? Commercial passenger models, such as Alstom's Coradia iLint, generally operate at top speeds of 140 km/h. Currently, hydrogen fuel cell systems are highly efficient for lighter regional passenger fleets but are less powerful than heavy-duty diesel locomotives. Because hydrogen requires a massive amount of physical storage volume, matching the immense tractive power required for heavy freight trains over long distances remains a significant engineering hurdle. How far can a hydrogen train travel on a single tank of hydrogen? Standard regional hydrogen passenger trains generally feature an operational range of 600 to 1,000 kilometers on a single fill. In 2022, a modified Alstom Coradia iLint set a world record by traveling 1,175 kilometers on a single tank of hydrogen during a promotional run. Smaller or retrofitted passenger configurations, such as pilot trains designed for shorter regional lines, often operate with ranges closer to 250 kilometers per cycle. How long does it take to refuel a hydrogen train compared to charging an electric train? Refueling a hydrogen train takes roughly 15 to 20 minutes extending up to 60 minutes for large-capacity fleet. This allows it to quickly return to service, mimicking traditional diesel logistics. Pure battery-electric trains used on non-electrified tracks require anywhere from several hours for a full depot charge to 20–30 minutes using fast-charging stations, which can disrupt standard route schedules. But the conventional electric trains running continuously on overhead catenary wires do not require refueling downtime at all. Which countries already operate or deploy hydrogen trains? Germany: The global pioneer, having launched the world's first fully commercial, regular passenger service using a fleet of hydrogen trains in Lower Saxony. China: Has developed and successfully deployed multiple fuel cell variants, including urban digital transits and regional locomotives. India: Has actively entered the space by retrofitting older rolling stock into hydrogen fuel-cell setups, deploying pilot passenger runs on dedicated regional test tracks like the Jind–Sonipat corridor. Japan & United States: Both nations currently run active, localised pilot routes, testing small passenger fleets for regional transit authorities. Key Features of the Hydrogen-Powered Train on the Jind-Sonipat Section 10-car hydrogen fuel cell-based trainset. Powered by a 1200 kW hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system. Approved to operate at a maximum speed of 75 km/h with a design speed of 110 km/h. Capacity of around 2,600 passengers. Developed from the design stage through prototype manufacturing. It will connect Jind Junction, Gohana Junction, and Sonipat while serving intermediate stations. Proposed halts include Jind City, Pandu Pindara Junction, Lalit Khera Halt, Bhambhewa, Isapur Kheri Halt, Butane Halt, Khandrai Halt, Rabrah Halt, Lath Halt, Mohana, Barwasni Halt and Sonipat New.

PM Modi has inaugurated India's first indigenous hydrogen-powered train on the Jind-Sonipat route. Learn how this 3,200 HP green fuel cell technology replaces diesel to generate clean electricity onboard with zero carbon emissions.

Zero emissions, pure water: Inside India’s first hydrogen train flagged off by PM Modi

India has launched its first hydrogen fuel cell-powered train, marking a major milestone in the country's clean energy and sustainable transportation journey. Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the 10-coach hydrogen-powered train from Jind in Haryana. The pilot project aims to reduce emissions, improve energy efficiency, and support India's net-zero goals. With this launch, India joins a select group of countries operating hydrogen-powered trains.

India launches first hydrogen-powered train | PM Modi flags off green rail revolution 

India has launched its first hydrogen fuel cell-powered train, marking a significant step toward clean and sustainable rail transportation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag off the 10-coach hydrogen train in Haryana's Jind, where it will begin operations on the Jind–Sonipat route under Northern Railway. The pilot project aims to test hydrogen propulsion technology, dedicated refueling systems, and operational efficiency while reducing carbon emissions and dependence on diesel-powered trains. With this launch, India joins countries such as Germany, Japan, China, and the United States in operating hydrogen-powered rail services. Indian Railways also plans to explore the use of hydrogen technology on heritage routes, supporting its long-term goal of achieving net-zero emissions and greener transportation.

PM Modi flags off India's first hydrogen-powered train | Indian railways begins green rail revolution

India is set to get its first hydrogen-powered train on Friday as Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that he will flag off the service between Jind and Sonipat in Haryana. The Prime Minister said the launch will place India among a select group of nations that have successfully demonstrated the technology.&nbsp;Calling it an important step towards cleaner transportation, Modi said the hydrogen-powered train reflects India's growing focus on adopting clean technology in the railway sector.&nbsp;"From Jind tomorrow, India’s first hydrogen-powered train will be flagged off, which will connect Jind and Sonipat. India becomes one of the select group of nations that has such trains. This will go a long way in ensuring that India adopts clean technology in the railway sector," he wrote on X.&nbsp;The launch follows the completion of one of the world's largest railway electrification drives, with more than 99 per cent of India's broad gauge network now electrified. The Hydrogen Fuel Cell Trainset marks the next stage of this transition by generating electricity onboard while producing only water vapour and heat as by-products. The project also establishes the country's first integrated hydrogen railway ecosystem, covering hydrogen production, storage, refuelling infrastructure and train operations.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/stampede-like-situation-during-india-s-puri-rath-yatra-festival-one-feared-dead-say-reports-odisha-stempede-updates-rath-yatra-puri-1784208646238">Stampede-like situation during India's Puri Rath Yatra festival: One feared dead, say reports</a><h2>How a hydrogen train works</h2>India's first Hydrogen Fuel Cell Trainset generates its own electricity using hydrogen instead of overhead electric lines or diesel engines. It relies on a hydrogen fuel cell that produces electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, with heat and water vapour as the only by-products.&nbsp;Power is generated through a Proton Exchange Membrane fuel cell. Hydrogen stored in cylinders on the train combines with oxygen from the air inside the fuel cell to produce electricity. The electricity powers the traction motors that drive the wheels without combustion, resulting in zero smoke or tailpipe carbon emissions.&nbsp;Indian Railways has established what it describes as the country's largest railway hydrogen refuelling facility at Jind. The process begins with hydrogen production through electrolysis, where electricity is used to split water into hydrogen and oxygen.<h2>Jind to Sonipat route and key stations</h2>The 10-coach train can accommodate around 2,600 passengers and will operate on the 89-kilometre Jind to Sonipat section of the Northern Railway in Haryana.&nbsp;The route connects Jind Junction, Gohana Junction and Sonipat while serving intermediate stations and proposed halts, including Jind City, Pandu Pindara Junction, Lalit Khera Halt, Bhambhewa, Isapur Kheri Halt, Butana Halt, Khandrai Halt, Rabrah Halt, Lath Halt, Mohana, Barwasni Halt and Sonipat New.The train will initially run at a maximum speed of 75 kmph on the Jind to Sonipat route. However, it has been designed for a top speed of 110 kmph.&nbsp;With the launch, India joins a select group of countries that possess hydrogen-powered rail technology. Germany pioneered the commercial use of hydrogen-powered passenger trains, while Japan, China, Italy and France are currently undertaking restricted pilot programmes or limited deployments.

Unlike traditional trains, India's first hydrogen-powered train generates its own electricity onboard using hydrogen fuel cells instead of diesel engines or overhead electric wires.

India is set to get its first hydrogen-powered train on Friday as Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that he will flag off the service between Jind and Sonipat in Haryana. The Prime Minister said the launch will place India among a select group of nations that have successfully demonstrated the technology. Calling it an important step towards cleaner transportation, Modi said the hydrogen-powered train reflects India's growing focus on adopting clean technology in the railway sector. "From Jind tomorrow, India’s first hydrogen-powered train will be flagged off, which will connect Jind and Sonipat. India becomes one of the select group of nations that has such trains. This will go a long way in ensuring that India adopts clean technology in the railway sector," he wrote on X. The launch follows the completion of one of the world's largest railway electrification drives, with more than 99 per cent of India's broad gauge network now electrified. The Hydrogen Fuel Cell Trainset marks the next stage of this transition by generating electricity onboard while producing only water vapour and heat as by-products. The project also establishes the country's first integrated hydrogen railway ecosystem, covering hydrogen production, storage, refuelling infrastructure and train operations. Also Read: Stampede-like situation during India's Puri Rath Yatra festival: One feared dead, say reports How a hydrogen train works India's first Hydrogen Fuel Cell Trainset generates its own electricity using hydrogen instead of overhead electric lines or diesel engines. It relies on a hydrogen fuel cell that produces electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, with heat and water vapour as the only by-products. Power is generated through a Proton Exchange Membrane fuel cell. Hydrogen stored in cylinders on the train combines with oxygen from the air inside the fuel cell to produce electricity. The electricity powers the traction motors that drive the wheels without combustion, resulting in zero smoke or tailpipe carbon emissions. Indian Railways has established what it describes as the country's largest railway hydrogen refuelling facility at Jind. The process begins with hydrogen production through electrolysis, where electricity is used to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. Jind to Sonipat route and key stations The 10-coach train can accommodate around 2,600 passengers and will operate on the 89-kilometre Jind to Sonipat section of the Northern Railway in Haryana. The route connects Jind Junction, Gohana Junction and Sonipat while serving intermediate stations and proposed halts, including Jind City, Pandu Pindara Junction, Lalit Khera Halt, Bhambhewa, Isapur Kheri Halt, Butana Halt, Khandrai Halt, Rabrah Halt, Lath Halt, Mohana, Barwasni Halt and Sonipat New. The train will initially run at a maximum speed of 75 kmph on the Jind to Sonipat route. However, it has been designed for a top speed of 110 kmph. With the launch, India joins a select group of countries that possess hydrogen-powered rail technology. Germany pioneered the commercial use of hydrogen-powered passenger trains, while Japan, China, Italy and France are currently undertaking restricted pilot programmes or limited deployments.

Unlike traditional trains, India's first hydrogen-powered train generates its own electricity onboard using hydrogen fuel cells instead of diesel engines or overhead electric wires.

PM Modi to flag off India's first hydrogen train between Jind and Sonipat: Here's how it works

India’s first hydrogen-powered train is set to launch on the Jind-Sonipat route after receiving approval from the Ministry of Railways. Developed in India, the train produces zero emissions and positions the country among global leaders using hydrogen-powered rail technology.

India’s first hydrogen-powered train is set to launch on the Jind-Sonipat route after receiving approval from the Ministry of Railways. Developed in India, the train produces zero emissions and positions the country among global leaders using hydrogen-powered rail technology.

India set to launch first-ever 10-coach hydrogen train on Haryana’s Jind-Sonipat route | In Pics