India’s First Hydrogen Train Set to Launch by March 2025

India is making a significant step toward sustainable transportation with the introduction of its first hydrogen fuel cell-powered train, set to launch by March 31, 2025. This project marks India's first green hydrogen initiative in the transport sector, reinforcing the country’s commitment to clean energy and carbon neutrality. The move has been widely praised, as it aligns with India's goal of embracing eco-friendly technologies to combat climate change. Unlike diesel-powered locomotives, hydrogen trains emit only water vapor, making them a greener alternative for rail travel.

Route and Speed Details

The hydrogen-powered train will operate on the Jind-Sonipat route in Haryana, covering 89 km. This scenic route will offer passengers a quieter, cleaner, and sustainable travel experience. The train will be powered by a 1,200-horsepower (HP) hydrogen fuel engine, making it more powerful than similar hydrogen trains in Germany and China, which operate at only 500-600 HP. The train's speed will be 110 km/h, similar to conventional Indian Railways trains.

Higher Passenger Capacity

The Indian hydrogen train will set itself apart by having 10 coaches, whereas similar trains in other countries typically have only five coaches. With a total capacity of 2,638 passengers, the train will accommodate a large number of commuters, making it both efficient and practical for daily transport.

Future Plans and Expansion

Each hydrogen train is estimated to cost Rs 80 crore, and the Indian government has ambitious plans to extend hydrogen-powered trains to mountainous regions to promote sustainable tourism and environmental conservation. The first train will be operated by Northern Railway, and Indian Railways aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030.

Some of the proposed hydrogen train routes include:

Matheran Hill Railway

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

Kalka-Shimla Railway

Kangra Valley Railway

Nilgiri Mountain Railway

Leading the Way in Green Transport

By introducing hydrogen-powered trains, India is positioning itself as a global leader in sustainable rail transport. This initiative is expected to encourage other nations to adopt similar eco-friendly solutions, contributing to a worldwide shift toward cleaner, greener mobility. The successful rollout of hydrogen trains could pave the way for a revolutionary transformation in India’s transportation sector, further solidifying its commitment to environmental sustainability.