Indias First Hydrogen Train 6 Things Passengers Should Know Before Its Launch

The hydrogen-powered train has undergone multiple trials conducted by the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO). In May 2026, the Railway Board (RB) approved the introduction of India’s first hydrogen trainset. In a letter dated May 22, 2026, addressed to RDSO and Northern Railway, the RB conveyed its approval for introducing the hydrogen-powered train.

Speaking to Indianexpress.com, a senior Northern Railway official said that the country’s first hydrogen train is likely to be launched on July 17, 2026. “As of now, the train is expected to be launched on July 17. We are making preparations for that,” the official said.

The country’s first hydrogen-powered trainset will run on the Jind-Sonipat route. The 89-km-long stretch falls under the control of Northern Railway’s Delhi Division. During its journey between Jind and Sonipat, the hydrogen train will stop at 12 stations. These are: Jind City, Pandu Pindara, Lalit Khera, Bhambeva, Ishapur Kheri, Butana, Khandrai, Gohana, Rabhra, Lath, Mohana Haryana, and Barwasni. It will run as train number 74010/74009.

The Jind-Sonipat hydrogen train will operate at a maximum speed of 75 kmph. The 10-car trainset will include two Driving Power Cars (DPCs) with a capacity of 1,200 kW each, providing a combined power output of 2,400 kW, along with eight passenger coaches.

With its launch, the train is set to become the world’s longest hydrogen trainset and the most powerful hydrogen train on the Broad Gauge ( BG) platform.

As the name suggests, the Jind-Sonipat hydrogen train will be powered by hydrogen fuel. The train will use a 1,200 KW hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system, which will generate power to operate the train. This hydrogen train is a converted version of a Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) rake.

In a statement, the national transporter said: “Hydrogen is a high-energy-density fuel (120 MJ/Kg) in comparison to diesel (43 MJ/Kg), with low maintenance and a manageable Carbon footprint. In the proposed hybrid power system, the primary energy source is a Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) and the secondary energy source will be a battery bank to meet the average and peak power requirements.”

According to the Ministry of Railways, hydrogen fuel cell technology generates electricity through a chemical reaction involving hydrogen. The process produces only water vapour as an emission, making it a cleaner alternative to conventional fossil fuel-based traction systems.

To refuel India’s first hydrogen trainset, a hydrogen storage and refuelling facility has been set up at Haryana’s Jind. The facility has received the license from the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) for the storage and dispensing of compressed hydrogen gas.

“A hydrogen compression system has been provided for refuelling operations, along with necessary technical support and critical spares to ensure reliable and fail-safe functioning. Provision of a standby compressor unit is also being ensured.

Various safety sensors, including hydrogen leak detectors and flame detectors installed at the hydrogen production, storage and dispensing facility, will be regularly inspected and cleaned to prevent dust accumulation and ensure safe operation,” the Railways said.

With its launch, India will join a select group of countries, including Germany, Japan, China and the United States, that are exploring hydrogen-powered trains for cleaner rail transportation. Recently, Switzerland also unveiled a hydrogen train; however, it was developed for a narrow-gauge (NG) railway network.

Anish Mondal is a journalist with over nine years of experience covering the railways and roadways. Currently a member of the Indianexpress.com editorial team, Anish specializes in high-impact sectors. Professional Journey Anish began his career at the public broadcaster Rajya Sabha Television (now Sansad TV), where he developed a foundational understanding of legislative processes and national governance. In 2018, he transitioned to digital financial journalism at FinancialExpress.com, spending nearly six years refining his expertise in market trends and corporate reporting. Before joining The Indian Express in 2025, he served as a key contributor at ETNowNews.com. Education & Expertise Anish’s reporting is backed by a rigorous academic background in communication and the humanities: Master of Journalism and Mass Communication (MJMC) – Apeejay Stya University Post Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Production (PGTVRJP) – Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication Bachelor of Arts (English Honours) – University of Calcutta Areas of Coverage Connectivity: Detailed reporting on the expansion of Indian Railways and National Highway networks. ... Read More