India’s first hydrogen-powered train will test indigenous fuel-cell technology, hydrogen storage and refuelling systems on a Northern Railway route.
Indian Railways has launched India’s first indigenous hydrogen fuel cell-powered train, marking a milestone in the country’s efforts to adopt cleaner propulsion technologies for rail transport. The 10-coach train will operate on the Jind-Sonipat section of Northern Railway, supported by dedicated hydrogen storage, refuelling and maintenance infrastructure developed as part of a pilot project.
The initiative is intended to evaluate the feasibility of hydrogen-powered rail operations while reducing dependence on fossil fuel-based traction systems. Beyond the train itself, the project establishes the operational procedures, safety systems and supporting infrastructure required for future hydrogen-powered services. It also places India among a small group of countries, including Germany, Japan, China and the United States, that are exploring hydrogen rail technology.
Designed by the Research Design and Standards Organisation (RDSO), the train is powered by a 1200kW Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) propulsion system. It has a maximum approved operating speed of 75kmph, a design speed of 110kmph and can accommodate around 2,600 passengers. The train comprises two Hydrogen Driving Power Cars and eight trailer coaches. Each power car houses hydrogen storage cylinders, lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries and fuel cell systems that generate electricity onboard, producing only water vapour and heat as by-products.
To support operations, Indian Railways has commissioned the country’s largest railway hydrogen storage and refuelling facility at Jind, Haryana, capable of storing nearly 3,000kg of hydrogen. The facility incorporates hydrogen compression systems, standby compressors and continuous monitoring, and has been developed in line with NFPA-2 and ISO 19880 standards. Safety measures include hydrogen leak and flame detectors, automatic hydrogen shut-off mechanisms, continuous ventilation, emergency operating modes and real-time health monitoring for train operators.
According to the Ministry of Railways, the project will provide operational experience with hydrogen propulsion while helping validate maintenance practices, safety procedures and infrastructure required for wider adoption of hydrogen-powered rail transport in India.
