Indian Railways is set to launch its first hydrogen train prototype by March 2025, showcasing a powerful 1,200 HP engine as part of its sustainable rail transport initiative.

Indian Railways is advancing its commitment to sustainable transportation with the development of it’s India’s first hydrogen train. Built at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai, these hydrogen-powered trains aim to reduce carbon emissions and promote cleaner energy alternatives. This initiative aligns with India’s focus on green energy and innovative rail solutions.

In the fiscal year 2023-24, the Ministry of Railways allocated ₹2,800 crore for the development of 35 hydrogen fuel cell-based trains. The first prototype is being created as a pilot project, retrofitting a hydrogen fuel cell onto a Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) rake. The Research Design & Standards Organization (RDSO) has prepared the specifications, and safety approvals for related infrastructure, including hydrogen production, storage, and refueling, have been secured from the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organization (PESO).

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that this train would rank among the longest and most powerful hydrogen trains globally, boasting an engine capacity of 1,200 horsepower (HP), far surpassing the 500–600 HP capacities of hydrogen India’s first hydrogen train in other countries. The first hydrogen trainset is set to be operational by March 2025 and will likely run on the Northern Railway’s 89-km Jind-Sonipat route.

This development is a significant step toward leveraging hydrogen as a sustainable energy source for rail transport, positioning India at the forefront of green railway innovations.