Jindal Stainless Boosts India’s First Hydrogen-Powered Train

As India launches its inaugural hydrogen fuel cell train in Haryana, Jindal Stainless emerges as a key contributor to the nation’s green rail revolution.

JIND, HARYANA — India officially entered a new era of sustainable transportation today, July 17, 2026, with the launch of its first indigenous hydrogen-powered train. The hydrogen fuel cell-based locomotive, flagged off at Jind railway station, marks a significant milestone in the country's transition to cleaner energy. Among the domestic partners supporting this landmark infrastructure project, Jindal Stainless has played a pivotal role by supplying approximately 40% of the stainless steel used in the construction of the trainset.

The hydrogen-powered train is set to operate on the Jind-Sonipat section of the Northern Railway, serving as a pilot initiative to validate the operational viability of hydrogen propulsion in Indian rail mobility. By utilizing onboard hydrogen fuel cells to generate electricity, the train represents a shift away from traditional diesel-based traction systems, producing only water vapor and heat as byproducts.

Building India’s Green Rail Ecosystem

The development of the train involved a comprehensive indigenous effort, moving from design to prototype manufacturing under specifications approved by the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO). The 10-coach trainset is engineered for efficiency and safety, featuring a 1,200 kW hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system.

Jindal Stainless’s contribution of high-grade stainless steel is central to the train's structural integrity and energy efficiency. Known for its corrosion resistance and high strength-to-weight ratio, the material ensures durability while reducing the overall weight of the coaches—a critical factor for improving the performance and energy consumption of hydrogen-propelled vehicles.

This partnership aligns with the company’s ongoing strategy to provide advanced, lightweight stainless steel solutions for India's modern rail projects, including the Vande Metro and the Kolkata underwater metro.

Why It Matters

The deployment of the hydrogen train is a flagship project under India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission. It not only demonstrates the country's technological prowess but also establishes the necessary infrastructure for future green rail operations. The project is complemented by India’s largest railway hydrogen storage and refuelling facility in Jind, which is equipped with advanced safety systems, including leak and flame detectors, to ensure a secure operating environment.

For the manufacturing sector, the integration of specialized domestic materials reflects a growing "Make in India" success story in the high-tech defense and transport sectors.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Launch Date: July 17, 2026.

• Operational Route: Jind-Sonipat section, Northern Railway.

• Key Contributor: Jindal Stainless supplied 40% of the stainless steel for the train.

• Technology: 1,200 kW hydrogen fuel cell-based propulsion.

• Infrastructure: Largest railway hydrogen storage and refuelling facility located at Jind, Haryana.

FAQ

What makes the hydrogen train environmentally friendly? The train uses hydrogen fuel cells to generate electricity, meaning its only direct emissions are water vapor and heat, significantly reducing the carbon footprint compared to diesel locomotives.

What is the role of Jindal Stainless in this project? Jindal Stainless provided approximately 40% of the stainless steel used in the trainset, utilizing lightweight and corrosion-resistant grades to enhance the vehicle's structural efficiency and safety.

Where is the hydrogen refuelling facility located? The refuelling and storage facility, which supports the train’s operations, is located at Jind, Haryana, and is capable of storing nearly 3,000 kg of hydrogen.

Source: Press Information Bureau (PIB), DD News, Jindal Stainless.