Indian Railways approves hydrogen fuel cell train for Northern Railway pilot route

Indian Railways has approved the introduction of a 10-car hydrogen fuel cell-powered trainset on the Jind–Sonipat section of Northern Railway, marking a step in the country’s efforts to develop lower-emission rail transportation.

The hydrogen-powered train is expected to begin operations soon and will operate at speeds of up to 75 km/h using a 1,200 kW hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system.

Hydrogen-powered rail pilot in Haryana

The Jind–Sonipat route in Haryana has been selected as the pilot corridor for the project. A hydrogen storage and refuelling facility has already been established at Jind to support train operations.

According to Indian Railways, the system uses hydrogen fuel cell technology to generate electricity through a chemical reaction involving hydrogen, with water vapour being the primary emission.

The initiative places India among a small number of countries, including Germany, Japan, China and the United States, that are exploring or operating hydrogen-powered rail systems.

Refuelling and safety infrastructure

The Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) has granted approval for compressed hydrogen storage and dispensing at the Jind facility.

Indian Railways stated that the hydrogen refuelling system includes:

• A hydrogen compression system for train refuelling
• Standby compressor arrangements
• Hydrogen leak detection systems
• Flame detection systems
• Continuous monitoring and inspection protocols

The railway operator said the safety systems will undergo regular inspections and maintenance to ensure operational reliability.

Operational and maintenance protocols

Operation and maintenance manuals for both the hydrogen trainset and hydrogen infrastructure have been approved by the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO).

Additional measures include:

• 24/7 monitoring of hydrogen systems
• Deployment of trained and certified technical personnel
• Scheduled inspections and maintenance programmes
• Safety audits and standard operating procedures at Shakurbasti maintenance facilities

Indian Railways said trained technical teams will accompany the train during the initial operational phase to support system performance and reliability.

The project reflects growing international interest in hydrogen-powered transport systems as governments and operators seek alternatives to diesel-based rail traction for regional and non-electrified routes.