Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off India’s first hydrogen train on 17 July 2026. The train started from Jind in Haryana. Notably, it runs on the Jind–Sonipat route of about 90 km. Moreover, it marks a big step towards green railways.
Key Features of the Hydrogen Train
- Route: Jind to Sonipat, Haryana (about 90 km)
- Coaches: 10
- Power: About 3,200 horsepower
- Capacity: About 2,600 passengers
- Speed: Operational speed of 75 km/h, with a design speed of 110 km/h
- Hydrogen plant: At Jind
How a Hydrogen Train Works
A hydrogen train uses fuel cells. Inside the cells, hydrogen combines with oxygen from the air. This reaction produces electricity to run the train. Importantly, the only by-products are water vapour and heat. So, the train emits no carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides or particulates.
India Joins a Small Group
Only a few countries run hydrogen trains so far. For example, Germany started the world’s first hydrogen passenger trains in 2018. Now, India joins this small group. Also, India’s 10-coach train is among the longest and most powerful hydrogen trains. Notably, the train is designed and built in India.
Hydrogen for Heritage
Indian Railways plans to run more hydrogen trains on heritage and hill routes under its “Hydrogen for Heritage” plan. For instance, it is exploring the Kalka–Shimla route. Thus, the Jind–Sonipat project serves as a pilot.
Link With the National Green Hydrogen Mission
India launched the National Green Hydrogen Mission in 2023. It aims to produce 5 million tonnes of green hydrogen a year by 2030. Hence, hydrogen trains can create steady demand for clean hydrogen.
Why the Hydrogen Train Matters for UPSC and UKPSC
Notably, clean transport and green hydrogen are key science and environment topics. So, remember the route, the coaches and the by-products. Also, link it with the Green Hydrogen Mission. For official updates, also visit the Ministry of Railways. Next, for a related story, read about Semicon 2.0 and India’s chip push.
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