India launches the world’s most powerful hydrogen train, covering 6,000 km
India’s first hydrogen-fuelled train, inaugurated by Narendra Modi, has already travelled about 6,000 kilometres and cut CO₂ emissions by roughly 36 tonnes.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off India’s inaugural hydrogen-powered train last month, and the 10-coach set has now logged roughly 6,000 km on the Jind-Sonipat route in Haryana. With a capacity for 2,600 passengers, the train can operate at a maximum speed of 75 km/h, though its design allows up to 110 km/h. Its 3,200 HP hydrogen fuel-cell propulsion produces only water vapour, eliminating diesel-related emissions and saving an estimated 36,444 kg of CO₂.
The entire system, including a locally built hydrogen storage and refuelling facility, was engineered by RDSO, ICF and Medha. Ticket prices match those of ordinary DEMU services, ranging from Rs 10 to Rs 25. By joining a small group of nations with operational hydrogen trains, India showcases its rail engineering capability and a new option for greener travel on routes where electrification is challenging.
Why it matters
It demonstrates a domestically built, zero-emission rail option that could reduce carbon footprints on non-electrified lines.
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