Indian Railways (IR) has approved the introduction of a 10-car Hydrogen Fuel Cell-based train-set on the Jind-Sonipat section of Northern Railway (NR) soon. The train will be operated as a daily service.
In a letter to General Manager NR dated July 8,2026, the Railway Board approved the introduction of train number 74010 /74009 Jind-Sonipat train-set at an early convenient date.
The train-set will run at a maximum speed of 75 kmph, powered by a 1200 KW hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system. The train will take two hours between Jind and Sonipat and two hours and twenty minutes on its return journey.
It will halt at Jind City, Pandu Pindara, Lalit Khera, Bhambeva, Ishapur Kheri, Butana, Khandrai, Gohana, Rabhra, Lath, Mohana Haryana and Barwasni in both directions. The service will operate with a single rake. The primary maintenance of the rake will be done at Jind.
How does hydrogen fuel cell technology work?
Hydrogen fuel cell technology generates electricity through a chemical reaction using hydrogen, with water vapour as the only emission, making it a clean alternative to conventional fossil fuel-based traction systems. Hydrogen-based rail systems are increasingly being recognised globally as a promising solution for sustainable mobility. With this initiative, India joins a select group of countries such as Germany, Japan, China and the United States that are exploring the use of hydrogen for cleaner rail transportation.
An indigenous hydrogen storage and refuelling facility has been set up at Jind for the train-set. The Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) has granted the required licence for storage and dispensing of compressed hydrogen gas at the site.
A hydrogen compression system has been provided for refuelling operations, along with necessary technical support and critical spares to ensure reliable and fail-safe functioning. Provision of a standby compressor unit is also being ensured. Various safety sensors, including hydrogen leak detectors and flame detectors installed at the hydrogen production, storage and dispensing facility, will be regularly inspected and cleaned to prevent dust accumulation and ensure safe operation.
