India's Hydrogen-Powered Train Project: Pioneering Green Innovation in Railways
Key Ideas
  • Indian Railways successfully tested the first hydrogen-powered coach at its Integral Coach Factory in Chennai, a significant step in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting renewable energy.
  • The project by Indian Railways' Northern Railway zone involves converting diesel power cars into hydrogen fuel cell-powered traction systems and establishing a hydrogen storage and fuelling facility in Haryana.
  • The hydrogen train, with a capacity to carry over 2,600 passengers, will operate between Jind and Sonepat stations in Haryana, covering two round-trips of 356 km each.
  • Safety measures for the hydrogen-powered train include pressure relief valves, leak detection systems, flame detection sensors, and continuous monitoring to ensure safe operation.
Indian Railways has made significant progress in its mission to introduce India's first hydrogen-powered train. The project, led by the Northern Railway zone, aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase the use of renewable energy. The conversion of conventional diesel power cars into hydrogen fuel cell-powered systems and the creation of a hydrogen storage and fuelling facility in Haryana mark key components of this initiative. The project, with an estimated cost of Rs. 136 crore, involves extensive testing by the Research Design & Standards Organisation. The hydrogen-powered train is designed to carry more than 2,600 passengers on a route between Jind and Sonepat stations. Safety remains a top priority, with measures such as pressure relief valves, leak detection systems, and flame sensors in place. Hydrogen fuel technology in railways poses challenges due to hydrogen's flammability. To address safety concerns, Indian Railways has conducted computational fluid dynamics studies and enlisted the expertise of a German safety auditor. The associated hydrogen fuelling facility in Jind is equipped to provide the required fuel while adhering to safety standards set by relevant agencies. This innovative project signifies a significant step towards sustainable transportation in India, showcasing the potential for hydrogen as a cleaner fuel in the railway sector. By prioritizing safety standards and investing in green technology, Indian Railways is leading the way in promoting a more environmentally friendly and energy-efficient transport system.
ADVANCEH2

Our vision is to be the world's leading online platform for advancing the use of hydrogen as a critical piece needed to deliver net-zero initiatives and the promise of a clean H2 energy future.

© 2025 AdvanceH2, LLC. All rights reserved.