Prime Minister Narendra Modi has officially launched India's first hydrogen-powered train, marking a historic shift toward sustainable and zero-emission rail transport. The pilot project will run on the Jind-Sonipat stretch in Haryana.

Key Takeaways

  • PM Narendra Modi flagged off India's inaugural hydrogen train on the Jind-Sonipat route in Haryana.
  • Developed by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF), Chennai, the train represents a leap in indigenous green technology.
  • The 89-km pilot route includes a specialized indigenous hydrogen storage and refueling facility at Jind.
  • India joins an elite group of nations like Germany and Japan in pioneering hydrogen-powered rail mobility.

In a landmark moment for the Indian transport sector, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has flagged off the nation's first hydrogen-powered train. Operating on the Jind-Sonipat section in Haryana, this initiative signifies a massive leap toward decarbonizing the Indian Railways and fulfilling the nation's commitment to sustainable mobility.

Engineering Marvel: The ICF Connection

The cutting-edge trainset is a product of the Chennai-based Integral Coach Factory (ICF), showcasing India's growing prowess in high-tech manufacturing. This 10-car configuration features two Driving Power Cars (DPCs) with a combined power output of 2,400 kW. Designed for efficiency and speed, the train is capable of reaching a maximum operational speed of 75 kmph, serving as a testing ground for larger-scale deployments across the country.

Infrastructure and Safety Standards

A critical component of this project is the establishment of an indigenous hydrogen storage and refueling facility at Jind. To ensure the highest safety standards, the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) has granted the necessary licenses for the storage and dispensing of compressed hydrogen gas. This infrastructure is vital for the seamless operation of the 89-km pilot route under the Northern Railway’s Delhi Division.

Operational Schedule and Connectivity

The hydrogen train service (Train Nos. 74010/74009) will provide daily connectivity. Train 74010 will depart from Jind at 07:40 hrs, reaching Sonipat by 09:40 hrs. The return service, 74009, will leave Sonipat at 10:40 hrs and arrive in Jind at 13:00 hrs. The service will cater to local commuters with stops at 12 key stations, including Gohana, Pandu Pindara, and Mohana Haryana, ensuring significant regional connectivity.

A Global Leap in Green Mobility

By integrating hydrogen fuel technology, India enters a prestigious global club alongside Germany, Japan, China, and the United States. While countries like Switzerland have explored hydrogen for narrow-gauge networks, India's push for mainstream rail lines marks a decisive step in the global race toward a net-zero future. This pilot project is expected to pave the way for a nationwide network of clean, hydrogen-powered corridors.