New delhi

Indian Railways is set to introduce a 10-coach hydrogen fuel cell-powered train on the Jind-Sonipat route under Northern Railway, marking a major step towards environmentally friendly and sustainable transportation.

The Ministry of Railways said the train is expected to begin operations soon and will run at a top speed of 75 kmph. It will be powered by a 1200 KW hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system designed to provide cleaner and energy-efficient rail travel.

Hydrogen fuel cell technology produces electricity through a chemical reaction involving hydrogen, with water vapour being the only by-product. Officials said this makes it a cleaner alternative to conventional fossil fuel-powered systems.

With this initiative, India joins countries such as Germany, Japan, China and the United States that are experimenting with hydrogen-powered railway systems.

The Jind-Sonipat section in Haryana has been chosen as the pilot corridor for the project. To support operations, an indigenous hydrogen storage and refuelling facility has been developed at Jind.

The Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) has already approved the storage and dispensing of compressed hydrogen gas at the site.

Railways officials said a hydrogen compression system has been installed for refuelling, along with technical support infrastructure and essential spare components to ensure uninterrupted and safe functioning. A standby compressor is also being arranged as an additional safety measure.

The ministry stated that advanced safety systems, including hydrogen leak sensors and flame detectors, have been installed at the hydrogen production, storage and dispensing units. These systems will undergo regular inspection and maintenance.

Indian Railways has also prepared detailed operation and maintenance manuals for both the hydrogen train and the hydrogen plant, with approvals from the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO). Safety audits, standard operating procedures and maintenance protocols have also been finalised for the Shakurbasti maintenance facility.

Officials said the project will include round-the-clock monitoring of the hydrogen refuelling system and deployment of specially trained and certified personnel for critical operations. During the initial phase, technical experts will travel onboard the train to ensure smooth functioning.

READ MORE: Hajj 2026: Faith moves 1.7 million Muslims through Islam's holiest pilgrimage

The ministry said the hydrogen train project reflects Indian Railways’ focus on innovation, energy efficiency and sustainable mobility, while supporting India’s broader clean energy and net-zero emission goals.