India has introduced its first hydrogen-powered train built inside the country. The launch marks an important step toward cleaner public transport. It also supports India’s plan to reduce emissions across its railway network. The pilot project will help Indian Railways study how hydrogen technology performs on passenger routes.
The new hydrogen-powered train started operations in Haryana and consists of two hydrogen-powered driving cars along with eight passenger coaches. Railway officials said the train can reach speeds of up to 75 kilometers per hour (47 mph) and accommodate nearly 2,600 passengers.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially inaugurated the train, named “NaMo Green Rail,” at Jind railway station in Haryana on Friday. The name “NaMo” comes from the commonly used abbreviation of Narendra Modi’s first and last names.
After the launch, Modi shared a message on X. He said, “This is a very significant day in the direction of self-reliant India and sustainable development.”
Clean Energy Pilot for Indian Railways
The pilot project also includes hydrogen storage and refueling facilities. These systems will help officials evaluate hydrogen-powered trains under real operating conditions.
Hydrogen fuel cells generate electricity by combining hydrogen with oxygen. The process releases water vapor as the only direct emission, making the technology an alternative to diesel engines on railway lines that are not fully electrified. Several countries have already adopted hydrogen-powered trains for similar routes.
India aims to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2070. Because of this goal, Indian Railways is exploring cleaner alternatives to diesel-powered trains. Hydrogen is one of the leading options under review.
The results of this pilot project will help determine whether the technology can be expanded to more routes across the country.
