India, July 17 -- India's first hydrogen-powered passenger train, set to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday, marks a significant step towards cleaner rail transport. However, experts believe hydrogen-powered trains are likely to play only a niche role in the country's railway network, as more than 95 per cent of India's broad-gauge routes are already electrified.

The inaugural service will operate between Jind and Sonipat in Haryana, covering the 89-km route in approximately two hours with 12 intermediate stops.

According to the Ministry of Railways, the 10-coach train will be powered by a 1,200-kilowatt hydrogen fuel-cell propulsion system and will run at a maximum speed of 75 kmph.

Calling it a milestone in the ...