India launched its first hydrogen-powered train on July 18, 2026, running an 89 km route between Jind and Sonipat in Haryana. The 10 coach train uses a 1,200 kW hydrogen fuel cell system that emits only water and steam. The project cost about $12 million and is part of India's effort to decarbonize one of the world's largest rail networks. The train was developed in India, though key components like fuel cells were imported. A new hydrogen storage and refueling facility with 3,000 kg capacity was also opened in Jind. Officials acknowledge the pilot is more expensive than conventional trains but expect costs to drop as the technology matures. India joins Germany, Japan, China and the US in testing hydrogen rail. The country's railways carried 7.41 billion passengers and 1.67 billion tonnes of freight last year. This launch is part of a broader modernization push that includes Vande Bharat trains and a high speed rail line using Japanese Shinkansen technology expected to begin service in 2027.
