CHANDIGARH: India’s first hydrogen-powered train, designed at the Integrated Coach Factory in Chennai, will be flagged off on Thursday, July 17, from Jind in Haryana by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This initiative positions India among a select group of countries, including Germany, Japan, China, and the United States, that are exploring hydrogen as a cleaner alternative for rail transportation.
The train features 10 coaches, making it one of the largest hydrogen-powered passenger trains globally, as most existing hydrogen trains operate with only two to four coaches and typically serve short regional routes. A significant hydrogen storage and refuelling facility has been established at Jind to support this project.
The project integrates advanced propulsion technology with dedicated hydrogen storage, refuelling, and operational infrastructure, demonstrating the feasibility of clean rail transportation in India. Developed as a pilot initiative, it also promotes energy efficiency and environmentally responsible transportation.
The indigenous fuel-cell-based Distributed Power Rolling Stock (DPRS) has a 1,200-KW propulsion system. The 10-coach train will operate on the 89-km Jind-Sonepat dedicated section at a maximum speed of 75 kilometers per hour, though it is designed for a top speed of 110 km/h. Following successful trials on the Jind-Sonepat section last year, the Railway Board approved the hydrogen-powered train on May 22.
The train consists of two Hydrogen Driving Power Cars (DPCs) and eight Trailer Coaches (TCs), accommodating around 2,600 passengers. Each DPC contains fuel cells, lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, and hydrogen storage cylinders. According to the Railway Board’s official communication to Northern Railway on July 8, Hydrogen Train No. 74010 will depart from Jind railway station at 7:40 AM and arrive at Sonepat at 9:40 AM, covering 12 stations, including Jind City, Pandu Pindara, Lalit Khera, and others.
The hydrogen storage and refuelling facility at Jind can store nearly 3,000 kg of hydrogen at a time. It has received a license from the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) for the filling and storage of Compressed Hydrogen Gas (CHG) in a Hydrogen Storage System sourced from the Hydrogen Generation Unit. The hydrogen ecosystem adheres to internationally accepted standards, including NFPA-2 and ISO 19880 Series, and has undergone an independent safety assessment by TÜV SÜD, Germany.
The facility is equipped with safety sensors, including hydrogen leak detectors and flame detectors, which will be regularly inspected and cleaned to ensure safe operation. Training and competency certification for personnel at the hydrogen refuelling station and on-board crew will be provided, along with 24/7 monitoring of the control room and access to data logs for the hydrogen refuelling cycle.
The hydrogen-powered train is expected to operate significantly quieter than conventional diesel trains, thus reducing dependence on fossil fuels. It is equipped with advanced safety features, including hydrogen leak detectors, flame detectors, and continuous monitoring systems.
In 2020-21, the Railways proposed running 35 hydrogen trains under the “Hydrogen for Heritage” initiative at an estimated cost of Rs 80 crore per train and Rs 70 crore per route for ground infrastructure on various heritage or hill routes.
Haryana Cooperation, Jails, Elections, Heritage, and Tourism Minister Dr. Arvind Sharma stated that the arrival of India’s first hydrogen-powered train at Gohana Railway Station on July 17 will mark a significant moment in modern India’s history. He emphasized that this project reflects Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s forward-looking vision and will place Gohana on the global map as a symbol of modern and sustainable transportation.
Sharma also announced that a large eco-friendly rally will be organized in Jind to commemorate the occasion, with participation expected from the local community. He noted the public’s enthusiasm for this indigenous, pollution-free train and their eagerness to witness this landmark event.
