New Delhi/ Bhopal July 17, 2026

India on Friday marked a major milestone in clean transportation as Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the country's first hydrogen-powered train between Jind and Sonipat in Haryana. Describing it as a successful example of the 'Make in India' campaign, the Prime Minister said the project reflects India's growing capability to develop advanced and sustainable transport technologies.

According to agency reports, the train will run on the 89-km Jind-Sonipat route, covering the journey in about two hours with halts at 12 intermediate stations. With the launch, India has joined a select group of countries operating hydrogen-powered trains, strengthening its push towards cleaner and environmentally sustainable rail transport.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated the train to the nation after flagging it off. He also laid the foundation stone for development projects worth Rs 14,700 crore. Addressing a public gathering, he said the hydrogen-powered train showcases the success of the Make in India initiative and India's ability to adopt cutting-edge technologies for the future.

Hydrogen-powered trains are considered one of the most promising alternatives to diesel locomotives. Instead of burning fossil fuels, they generate electricity onboard through hydrogen fuel cells. The technology combines hydrogen with oxygen to produce electricity, while the only direct emissions are water vapour and heat. This makes the trains significantly cleaner and helps reduce carbon emissions from the transport sector.

The technology is particularly useful on railway routes where full electrification is either difficult or yet to be completed. Since the train carries its own power source, it can operate without overhead electric lines while offering a quieter and more energy-efficient mode of travel.

The indigenous train has been developed under the Make in India programme with technical support from the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO). It is equipped with hydrogen fuel cells, onboard batteries and advanced safety systems that continuously monitor hydrogen storage, leakage and fire risks. A dedicated hydrogen production and refuelling facility has also been established at Jind to support regular operations.

Railway officials see the project as an important step in India's transition towards green mobility. The experience gained from operating the country's first hydrogen-powered train is expected to guide the future deployment of similar technology across the Indian Railways network as it works to reduce its carbon footprint and modernise passenger transport.