India launches first indigenously built green hydrogen passenger train on Jind-Sonipat route

India has started passenger operations of its first indigenously built green hydrogen locomotive, running on the 89-kilometer Jind-Sonipat route. The train uses a 1,200-kilowatt proton exchange membrane fuel cell to convert hydrogen and oxygen into electricity, emitting only water vapor. It is a zero-carbon alternative to diesel locomotives, with a top speed of 75 kilometers per hour and capacity for up to 2,600 passengers. The locomotive stores hydrogen in high-pressure cylinders and uses lithium iron phosphate batteries for regenerative braking and extra power during acceleration. Indian Railways built a refueling station at Jind that can hold nearly 3,000 kilograms of hydrogen. Engineers equipped the train with leak detectors, automated shut-off valves, and flame sensors for safety. If the pilot succeeds, similar hydrogen rail corridors could expand across eastern India, including Odisha.