PM Modi Flags Off India’s First Hydrogen Train: Route, Features, Fares and Key Details

Prime Minster NArendra Modi inaugurates India's first hydrogen-powered train on the Jind–Sonipat route. Check the route, features, top speed, fares, how it works, and why it is a milestone for Indian Railways.

PM Modi Flags Off India's First Hydrogen Train (Img: X)

Sonipat: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday flagged off India's first hydrogen-powered train, marking a major milestone in the country's push for clean and sustainable transportation. The train began operations from Jind railway station in Haryana and will run on the Jind–Sonipat route, making India one of the few countries to operate hydrogen-powered passenger trains.

India's First Hydrogen Train: Why It Matters

The launch is a significant step in Indian Railways' green mobility mission. Unlike conventional diesel trains, the hydrogen train generates electricity onboard through hydrogen fuel cells. The only by-product of this process is water vapour, making it a near-zero-emission transport solution.

Hydrogen Train Route

India's first hydrogen-powered train will operate on the 89-kilometre Jind–Sonipat section of Northern Railway in Haryana. The route has been selected as the pilot corridor for introducing hydrogen fuel cell technology in Indian Railways.

Key Features of India's First Hydrogen Train

The train comes with several advanced features, including:

1. Hydrogen fuel cells that generate electricity onboard.
2. Two hydrogen-powered driving cars and eight passenger coaches.
3. Total power output of 2,400 kW.
4. Passenger capacity of around 2,600 people.
5. Multi-layer safety systems to detect hydrogen leaks, heat, flames and smoke.
6. Designed and developed using indigenous technology under the 'Make in India' initiative.
7. Top Speed and Operations

The hydrogen train has a maximum operational speed of 75 kmph, although its design allows higher speeds under suitable conditions. The project is supported by a dedicated hydrogen refuelling facility at Jind, ensuring smooth operations on the pilot route.

Hydrogen Train Fares

Indian Railways has kept ticket prices affordable. The minimum fare starts at ₹5, while passengers will pay according to the distance travelled, similar to other passenger train services on the route.

How Does a Hydrogen Train Work?

A hydrogen-powered train uses fuel cells to combine hydrogen and oxygen, producing electricity that powers the train. Since the process emits only water vapour and heat, hydrogen trains are considered one of the cleanest alternatives to diesel-powered rail transport.

A Major Boost to Green Mobility

The launch of India's first hydrogen train reflects the government's focus on reducing carbon emissions and adopting cleaner transport technologies. Officials say the project could pave the way for more hydrogen-powered trains on suitable routes across the country in the coming years, especially where full electrification may not be practical.