Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to script history on July 17, 2026, as he inaugurates India’s first indigenous hydrogen-powered train from Jind, Haryana. Adding a special touch to this milestone, 200 schoolchildren from grades 7 and 8 have been invited as VVIP guests for the inaugural run. These students were handpicked through local competitions centered on the theme of ‘Hydrogen Energy and Developed India’ and will be personally honored by the Prime Minister during the event.
- Inaugural Route: The train will run on the 89-kilometer Jind-Sonipat section, with the first journey covering the stretch from Jind Railway Station to Pandu Pindara Station.
- Technical Specifications: The train features a 1200 kilowatt propulsion system, reaching a maximum speed of 120 kmph, and can travel 250 km on a single hydrogen fill.
- Eco-Friendly Design: Built by ICF Chennai and Medha Servo Drives, the train generates electricity using hydrogen and oxygen, emitting only water vapor.
- Capacity: The 8-coach train can accommodate 2,600 passengers, with 682 dedicated seats.
- Infrastructure Boost: PM Modi will also inaugurate Amrit Bharat stations in Jind and Narwana and the 10-kilometer Kurukshetra Elevated Railway Track.
A Leap Toward Green Railways
This project represents a significant shift in Indian Railways’ commitment to sustainability. The train utilizes advanced hydrogen fuel-cell stacks provided by Canada’s Ballard Power Systems. To support these operations, a dedicated hydrogen production, storage, and refueling facility has been established in Jind. This facility is capable of producing 420-430 kg of hydrogen daily and has a storage capacity of 3,000 kg.
Safety and Infrastructure
Safety remains a top priority for this new technology. The train is equipped with sophisticated hydrogen leak and fire detectors that have been rigorously tested and approved by the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organization (PESO).
Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini and Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Krishna Kumar Bedi have reviewed the final preparations, describing the launch as a landmark day for the state’s rail infrastructure. By integrating cutting-edge technology with the development of Amrit Bharat stations, the government aims to modernize the passenger experience while maintaining a strong focus on zero-emission travel.