India Builds First Hydrogen Train for Pilot Run

11 Dec 2025 CW Team

Indian Railways has undertaken a state-of-the-art pilot project to operate its first hydrogen-powered train, developed in line with specifications framed by the Research, Design & Standards Organisation (RDSO). The initiative aims to demonstrate hydrogen traction technology as a next-generation, clean-energy solution for the rail sector.

Manufacturing of the hydrogen train-set has been completed, and a dedicated hydrogen production plant has been set up in Jind. The plant generates hydrogen through electrolysis, a key process in green hydrogen production.

Key Features of the Hydrogen Train-Set

Designed and developed in India, reinforcing Indian Railways’ commitment to Atmanirbhar Bharat.

Currently the world’s longest (10 coaches) and most powerful (2,400 kW) hydrogen train-set on a broad-gauge platform.

Consists of two Driving Power Cars of 1,200 kW each and eight passenger coaches.

Zero carbon emissions, with water vapour as the only by-product.

Represents a significant advancement in alternative fuel technology for the rail sector.

The project required full-cycle development—from initial design to prototype manufacturing—and marks the first implementation of hydrogen traction within Indian Railways. As both the train-set and supporting infrastructure are part of a pilot project, cost comparisons with established traction systems would not be meaningful at this stage.

The initiative highlights Indian Railways’ commitment to sustainable energy solutions and positions the country at the forefront of green transportation technology.

This information was shared by Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & Information Technology, in a written reply to the Lok Sabha.

Infrastructure Transport

10 Feb 2026

Tamil Nadu Gets Rs 76,110 mn for Railways, Three Projects Revived

Union Minister for Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that Tamil Nadu has been allocated Rs 76,110 mn in the Union Budget 2026–27, marking a 14.9 per cent increase over the Rs 66,260 mn allotted in 2025–26. The allocation is intended for ongoing new line projects, track doubling, station redevelopment and safety-related works, with project-wise details to be disclosed when the Pink Book is released. Officials indicated that the funds will be deployed across construction and modernisation priorities identified for the state. The minister urged the Tamil Nadu government to extend support f..

Nagpur Station Redevelopment Deadline Extended To March 2027

Nagpur Railway Station redevelopment has been rescheduled to March 2027 as officials opted for a cautious approach to minimise disruption at the busy terminus. The project had earlier been due for completion in December 2026 but work at a live station while preserving the heritage character of the building has slowed progress. The Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) said construction sequencing is being adjusted to maintain passenger services. The DRM provided an update on Ajni Railway Station, stating its redevelopment timeline has been revised to October 2026 instead of the earlier target of c..

Railway Push Boosts Connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir

An accelerated push to expand railway infrastructure is reshaping connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir, with Indian Railways leading an extensive programme of new lines, stations and engineering works. Officials described the effort as aimed at linking remote areas to major trade and transport corridors and at reducing travel time for passengers and freight. The programme incorporates complex tunnelling and bridge construction to negotiate challenging terrain and to provide year round access. Administrative sources indicated that coordination with central and local agencies has been intensified t..