India launches first hydrogen train on Jind-Sonipat route, targets net-zero rail by 2030

India's first hydrogen-powered train began service on July 17, 2026, running between Jind and Sonipat in Haryana. The 10-coach train, developed under the Make in India initiative, uses fuel cell technology that combines hydrogen and oxygen to generate electricity, with water vapor as the only byproduct. It can carry about 2,600 passengers daily across 12 stops on the 89-km route, with two round trips covering 365 km per day. The train can travel up to 1,200 km on a single hydrogen refill and reach 110 kmph. It was converted from existing Diesel Electric Multiple Unit coaches. Indian Railways plans to expand hydrogen trains to other non-electrified routes if the trial succeeds, as part of its goal to become a net-zero carbon emitter by 2030. The launch puts India alongside Japan, Germany, the US, and China in adopting hydrogen for public transit.