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Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag off India’s first hydrogen-powered train from Haryana’s Jind on July 17, marking a significant milestone in the country’s push towards cleaner and more sustainable rail transportation.
The hydrogen-powered train will operate on the Jind-Sonipat section, identified as the pilot route for the project.
The initiative represents a major achievement for both Haryana and the nation, reflecting Indian Railways’ commitment to innovation, energy efficiency and environmentally sustainable transport while supporting India’s clean energy and net-zero carbon emission goals.
The project established an indigenous hydrogen storage and refuelling facility in Jind for the train.
The Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) has granted the required licence for storing and dispensing compressed hydrogen gas at the site.
With this launch, India joins a select group of countries, including Germany, Japan, China and the United States, that are exploring hydrogen for cleaner rail transportation.
According to an official statement, hydrogen rail technology remains at a nascent stage, with only a limited number of countries currently operating or testing such systems.
Hydrogen fuel cell technology generates electricity through a chemical reaction using hydrogen, producing only water vapour as an emission, making it a clean alternative to conventional fossil fuel-powered traction systems.
A hydrogen compression system has been installed for refuelling operations, supported by essential technical infrastructure, critical spares and a standby compressor unit.
Safety measures include hydrogen leak detectors, flame detectors, regular inspections and approved operation and maintenance manuals cleared by the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO).
The government said the maintenance facility at Shakurbasti will follow comprehensive safety protocols, including 24/7 monitoring of the hydrogen refuelling system, deployment of trained and certified personnel, regular audits and scheduled inspections.
During the initial phase, trained technical staff will accompany the train to ensure smooth operations.
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