Indian Railways is set to launch the country’s first hydrogen-powered train on the Jind-Sonipat route in Haryana by March 31, 2025. This eco-friendly train will significantly reduce carbon emissions, marking a major step toward sustainable transportation.

The Research, Design, and Standard Organisation (RDSO) has designed the hydrogen train, which will have three special coaches equipped with hydrogen cylinders, fuel cell converters, batteries, and air reservoirs. The train will run at a maximum speed of 110 km/h.

Under the “Hydrogen for Heritage” initiative, Indian Railways plans to operate 35 hydrogen-powered trains. Each train will cost around Rs 80 crore, with an additional Rs 70 crore required for ground infrastructure on various heritage and hill routes.

Hydrogen trains offer zero carbon emissions, reduced noise, and higher energy efficiency. Although the initial investment is high, the long-term benefits make them a cost-effective and sustainable choice for rail transport.

The Railways has also approved a Rs 111.83 crore pilot project to retrofit a Hydrogen Fuel Cell in an existing Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) rake, along with the necessary ground infrastructure, for operations on the Jind-Sonipat section.