In a landmark step toward greener transportation, Indian Railways has successfully tested the country’s first hydrogen-powered locomotive at the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai.
The eco-friendly train marks a major milestone in India’s push for sustainable mobility, aiming to reduce carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. Powered by hydrogen fuel cells, the locomotive produces only water vapor as a byproduct, making it a zero-emission alternative to conventional diesel engines.
Railway officials confirmed that the trial run met all key performance benchmarks, including speed, safety, and efficiency. “This is a proud moment for Indian Railways and a leap forward in our commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030,” an ICF spokesperson said.
The hydrogen locomotive project is part of a broader modernization plan that includes electrification of rail lines, adoption of renewable energy, and development of advanced rail technology.
Following the successful trial in Chennai, Indian Railways plans to conduct extended performance testing before deploying hydrogen-powered trains on select routes across the country.
