Hydrogen Train to Delhi? Indian Railways Eyes Azadpur Extension Amid Low Ridership
Indian Railways is considering a major expansion of its hydrogen fuel cell train service, looking to extend the route to Delhi. The proposed plan specifically targets Azadpur Station, as authorities search for ways to increase passenger numbers and make the green energy project more commercially viable.
The Challenge: Low Ridership on the Jind-Sonipat Route
The hydrogen-powered service was officially launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on July 17, 2026, starting from Jind Railway Junction. Currently, the train operates on an 89-kilometer stretch between Jind and Sonipat in Haryana. However, the service is struggling to attract commuters.
Despite the high-tech nature of the train, the numbers tell a different story:
- Massive Capacity Gap: The train is designed to hold approximately 2,600 passengers, yet daily ridership has been hovering between only 40 and 60 people.
- Reduced Frequency: Because of the low demand, the service has been scaled back from two daily return trips to just one.
Is an Extension to Delhi Technically Possible?
While the idea of bringing the hydrogen train to the capital is being discussed, officials are weighing the technical benefits against significant logistical hurdles. The distance to Delhi is roughly 130 kilometers, which is well within the train's 250 to 300-kilometer operational range.
Major Hurdles to Overcome
Even though the distance is manageable, several factors could complicate the Delhi extension:
- Capacity Mismatch: The current 10-coach hydrogen train is much smaller than the 18- to 20-coach formations typically required to handle the heavy commuter loads in the Delhi metropolitan area.
- Infrastructure Needs: To operate in Delhi, the railways would need to build new refueling stations outside of the current facility in Jind.
Alternative Ideas for Industrial Connectivity
As the Research, Design & Standards Organisation (RDSO) and Northern Railway continue to evaluate the technical viability of the project, the public has suggested other ways to utilize the technology. One popular proposal is to create a 180-kilometer circuit that links Jind, Sonipat, Panipat, and Safidon, which could provide better connectivity for various industrial hubs.
The hydrogen train itself is a specialized piece of engineering, designed and manufactured by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai. To ensure high safety standards, the train's systems are licensed by the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation.