India has launched its first indigenously built hydrogen-powered train, marking a major step in the country’s push to expand clean energy across its railway network and reduce carbon emissions.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the “NaMo Green Rail” on Friday at Jind railway station in the northern state of Haryana. The train, named using a common abbreviation of Modi’s first and last names, is designed and built in India.
The train consists of two hydrogen-powered driving cars and eight passenger coaches, can travel at speeds of up to 75 km/h, and has a maximum capacity of approximately 2,600 passengers.
Calling the launch a milestone for the country, Modi said the project represents a significant step toward a self-reliant India while advancing sustainable development.
The pilot project also includes hydrogen storage and refuelling infrastructure to evaluate the technology’s viability across India’s railway system.
Hydrogen fuel cells generate electricity by combining hydrogen and oxygen, producing only water vapour as a direct emission, making the technology a cleaner alternative to diesel-powered trains on non-electrified routes.
The launch forms part of India’s broader strategy to expand green hydrogen production, cut carbon emissions and transition toward cleaner transportation as the country modernizes one of the world’s largest railway networks.
