India's First Hydrogen Train Flags Off: A Green Leap on Jind-Sonipat Route
Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off India's first hydrogen train on Tuesday, marking a significant step towards green mobility. The train, developed by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai, will operate on the 89-kilometre Jind-Sonipat route in Haryana, under Northern Railway's Delhi Division.
The Ministry of Railways confirmed that the Jind-Sonipat section has been chosen as the pilot route for hydrogen-powered trains. An indigenous hydrogen storage and refuelling facility has been established at Jind to support the train-set. The Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) has granted the necessary licence for storing and dispensing compressed hydrogen gas at the site.
Hydrogen trains produce zero emissions, with water vapour as the only byproduct. They are part of India's broader push towards sustainable transportation and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. The project aligns with the government's National Hydrogen Mission, aimed at making India a global hub for green hydrogen production and use.
The flag-off ceremony took place at the Jind railway station, where the Prime Minister also inspected the train and interacted with railway officials. The train is expected to undergo extensive trials before being introduced for regular passenger service. If successful, the hydrogen train could be deployed on other non-electrified routes across the country.
