Excitement filled Haryana’s Jind as India’s inaugural hydrogen-powered train was welcomed by residents, adorned with flowers and balloons before Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled inauguration. Operating on the Jind-Sonipat route, this train signifies a significant step in India’s push for cleaner and more sustainable rail travel. Local residents gathered to commemorate the event, hailing it as a historic advancement that would enhance connectivity, save time, and boost regional growth.
Expressing delight over the new service, a local resident expressed, “We are extremely happy. A train service will now operate from our area, which will save time and reduce the difficulties faced by the public. The fare is also reasonable. We hope for a medical college here, and I believe the Prime Minister will definitely provide that soon.” Another resident emphasized the historical importance of the project, stating, “For the first time, a hydrogen train is running in our Jind. This will be written in history. There is a festive atmosphere here, and it is a matter of great happiness. The fare is also normal.”
A third local resident highlighted the positive impact of the new train on the people and the development of Jind, stating, “This will benefit people greatly. It will play an important role in the progress of Jind. The Prime Minister should keep visiting here. One thing is that this train should be extended from Jind to Panipat because there are not as many passengers on the Sonipat route.” Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate India’s first hydrogen-powered train from Jind, marking the nation’s foray into exploring hydrogen technology for cleaner rail transport.
Running between Jind and Sonipat, the hydrogen train underscores Indian Railways’ emphasis on innovation, energy efficiency, and environmentally sustainable transportation. This initiative aligns with India’s broader clean energy goals and its ambition to achieve net-zero carbon emissions. The Jind-Sonipat section has been chosen as the pilot route for hydrogen-powered train operations, with an indigenous hydrogen storage and refueling facility established at Jind for the train set. The Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) has granted the necessary license for storing and dispensing compressed hydrogen gas at the facility.
India now joins a select group of nations, including Germany, Japan, China, and the United States, in the development or testing of hydrogen-powered rail systems. Given the technology’s early stage, only a few countries currently operate or trial hydrogen-based trains.
