India's First Hydrogen Train Begins Pilot Run on Jind-Sonipat Route: Zero-Emission Rail

India launched its first hydrogen-powered train on the Jind-Sonipat route in Haryana, marking a shift from diesel to zero-emission rail. The train emits only water vapor and reduces noise pollution. A dedicated hydrogen plant at Jind Junction supplies the fuel. This pilot is part of the Hydrogen for Heritage project and will test operations before a wider national rollout. Commercial services are expected after safety inspections, with fares similar to existing diesel trains. The 89-kilometer route is the testing ground for this technology. The train uses hydrogen fuel cells instead of diesel combustion, cutting both carbon emissions and noise. The Indian government aims to expand hydrogen rail across the network. This project shows how green hydrogen can decarbonize heavy transport, though scaling up hydrogen production and refueling infrastructure remains a challenge.