In a historic leap towards sustainable transportation, India has completed the manufacturing of its first indigenously developed hydrogen-powered train-set. This landmark achievement places the nation among a select group of countries pioneering hydrogen traction technology for railways and underscores a significant stride in the journey towards cleaner, greener rail mobility.
A Pioneering Pilot Project Under Atmanirbhar Bharat
This initiative, led by Indian Railways, is a fully indigenous effort covering the entire development cycle from initial design and prototype fabrication to the first-ever creation of hydrogen traction technology within the national rail network. The project strongly aligns with the government's Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) mission. The technical specifications for this innovative train-set were framed by the Research, Design & Standards Organisation (RDSO), the standard-setting body for Indian Railways.
Officials have clarified that as a pilot project, comparing the costs of this hydrogen-powered system with conventional traction methods at this early stage would not yield a meaningful assessment. The primary focus is on demonstrating technical feasibility and building crucial domestic expertise in next-generation fuel technologies.
World's Longest and Most Powerful on Broad Gauge
The newly built train-set is notable not just for its clean fuel but also for its impressive scale and power. It is now recognized as the world's longest hydrogen-powered train running on broad gauge, with a total of 10 coaches. The configuration includes two Driving Power Cars (DPCs), each rated at 1,200 kW, delivering a combined power output of 2,400 kW, along with eight passenger coaches.
Its key environmental advantage is the emission of zero carbon dioxide, with water vapor being the only by-product. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, in a written reply in the Lok Sabha, confirmed the project's pilot nature and its end-to-end indigenous development.
Green Hydrogen Infrastructure Takes Shape in Jind
To fuel this green initiative, a dedicated green hydrogen production plant is in its final commissioning stage at Jind in Haryana. The plant, which uses electrolysis powered by electricity, will have a storage capacity of 3,000 kg of hydrogen. It has been equipped with a steady 11 kV power supply to support both train commissioning and daily operations.
The hydrogen train is expected to operate on the Jind–Sonipat section under Northern Railway, with preparations in the final phase. The Haryana government is closely monitoring progress, viewing it as a first-of-its-kind national initiative. Haryana Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi recently reviewed the project's readiness, instructing officials to ensure robust power supply and backup systems.
The completion of India's first hydrogen train-set and the supporting green hydrogen plant at Jind collectively highlight Indian Railways' deepening commitment to decarbonisation. As this pilot project nears its operational rollout, it represents a defining, concrete step towards a more energy-efficient and sustainable transportation future for the country.
