India is set to enter a new era of sustainable rail travel as Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares to flag off the country’s first hydrogen-powered train on July 17, 2026. This landmark project, which received formal approval from the Railway Board on May 22, 2026, and final government clearance on July 10, 2026, will debut on the Jind-Sonipat section in Haryana. In addition to this green initiative, the Prime Minister will inaugurate various infrastructure developments, including the newly renovated Amrit Bharat Stations in Jind and Narwana.
Key details of the new service include:
- Launch Date: July 17, 2026
- Route: Jind to Sonipat (Haryana)
- Capacity: 10-coach train with 682 seats (2,600 passenger capacity)
- Daily Schedule: Two round trips covering 356 km
- Fare Range: ₹5 to ₹25
Engineering and Performance
The hydrogen train is a marvel of indigenous engineering, designed by the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) and constructed by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF), with system integration managed by Medha Servo Drives. While the train is capable of reaching a top speed of 110 kmph and has already cleared high-speed trials at 120 kmph, it will operate at a maximum speed of 75 kmph on the Jind-Sonipat route for optimal efficiency. Operating with zero carbon emissions, the train’s only byproduct is water vapor, making it a major step toward a cleaner railway network.
Operational Schedule and Safety
Passengers can board Train No. 74010 departing Jind at 7:40 AM, arriving in Sonipat at 9:40 AM. The return journey, Train No. 74009, departs Sonipat at 10:40 AM and reaches Jind by 1:00 PM. The route serves 12 intermediate stations.
Safety remains a top priority, with the train featuring advanced hydrogen leakage and flame detectors. The project is supported by a dedicated hydrogen production facility in Jind capable of producing 420-430 kg of hydrogen daily with a storage capacity of 3,000 kg. The site has also secured a license from the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organization (PESO) for secure storage and refueling. Maintenance will primarily be conducted in Jind, with major overhauls scheduled at the Shakurbasti depot in Delhi.