Indian Railways has made a significant step by successfully testing India’s first hydrogen-powered coach at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw made the statement, describing it as an important step towards implementing sustainable and eco-friendly transport solutions.

In a post on X, the minister confirmed that the hydrogen-powered Driving Power Car had been successfully tested. He also stated that India is in the midst of constructing a 1,200-horsepower hydrogen-powered train, which will raise the country’s position as a global pioneer in hydrogen rail technology.

This hydrogen coach is part of Indian Railways’ bigger “Hydrogen for Heritage” effort, which includes plans for 35 hydrogen-fueled trains. These trains are planned to operate on heritage and hilly terrain. Each train is estimated to cost ₹80 crore, with an additional ₹70 crore needed for supporting infrastructure on each route.

Additionally, Indian Railways is piloting a project to retrofit a Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) with hydrogen fuel cells. This retrofit, including ground installations, is estimated at ₹111.83 crore and will operate along the Jind–Sonipat section of Northern Railway.

Hydrogen fuel, known for its zero carbon emissions, is regarded as critical to India’s clean energy revolution.