India on Friday launched its first domestically manufactured hydrogen-powered train in a move aimed at expanding the use of clean energy in its vast railway network.
The train consists of two hydrogen-powered driving cars and eight passenger cars, and will operate in the northern state of Haryana. It can travel at speeds of up to 75 kilometers per hour (47 miles per hour) and carry up to about 2,600 passengers, according to railway officials.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Namu Green Rail train at Jind station in Haryana state.
"Namo" is a common abbreviation for Moody's first and last name.
Modi said in a post on the X platform: "This is a very important day in the direction of a self-reliant India and sustainable development."
According to officials, the pilot project includes hydrogen storage and refueling infrastructure to test the use of this technology in the Indian railway network.
Hydrogen fuel cells generate electricity by combining hydrogen with oxygen, producing water vapor as the only direct emission. Several other countries have introduced hydrogen-powered trains as an alternative to diesel on lines that are not fully electrified.
This launch is part of India's broader efforts to develop green hydrogen and reduce carbon emissions. India has set a target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070, while Indian Railways is exploring the use of hydrogen as a diesel alternative on some lines.
