Last Updated:February 03, 2026, 10:27 IST

Is the train undergoing trials on the Kalka–Shimla route really India’s first hydrogen Vande Bharat? Possibly not; here is what you need to know.

Additional weight was added to the DHMU train as part of the testing process. (Photo Credit: Instagram)

Plans to introduce hydrogen-powered trains on the Kalka–Shimla railway line have once again drawn public attention. The scenic hill route, known for its narrow-gauge tracks, was promised a clean and modern alternative years ago. However, the project remains in its early stages and is still far from implementation.

Viral Video Sparks Confusion: Is It A Hydrogen Train?

Recently, a video shared by a content creator reignited speculation by claiming that trial runs of a hydrogen train had already begun in Himachal Pradesh. The truth, however, is different. The train shown in the viral clip is not hydrogen-powered but a Diesel Hydraulic Multiple Unit (DHMU) coach.

Trial Run Details Of The DHMU On Kalka–Shimla Track

The Diesel Hydraulic Multiple Unit coaches were brought in for testing on the 90-km Kalka–Shimla narrow-gauge track, which also holds UNESCO World Heritage status. The video shows the train arriving at Shimla station after what appears to be a successful trial run. Onlookers standing nearby can be seen filming the moment, smiling as they catch sight of a new train on the line, different from the iconic toy train that usually operates on this route.

What’s The Truth About The Hydrogen Vande Bharat?

At the same time, a hydrogen-powered train is also being developed by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai. Originally planned to start running in January 2026, the project has been delayed. When completed, the train will run on a 356-kilometre route and will be expanded in phases. It will operate two daily services and can carry more than 2,000 passengers. Designed to travel two kilometres per kilogram of hydrogen, it promises to be both eco-friendly and efficient.

Where Will The Hydrogen Train Operate First?

The hydrogen train is planned to run on the route between Sonipat and Jind in Haryana. Official fares have not yet been confirmed. The train will make four to five stops, allowing passengers to board and alight on this route.

DHMU Train At Shimla Station

Meanwhile, as per a report in Amar Ujala, extra weight was added to the DHMU train during the testing at Kalka–Shimla railway line. This was done to see how the train performs under load. The train started its journey from Kalka to Shimla at 8:46 am, followed by stops at Dharampur and Solan, where officials watched the engine and checked its temperature.

The train also made very short stops at Kandaghat, Shoghi and Taradevi. Throughout the trial, it moved at a speed of 28 kilometres per hour. A key point from the test was that the engine stayed cool and showed no signs of heating. The cooling system in all coaches worked properly during the run. Along with this, the team also checked basic facilities inside the train, such as air conditioning, lights, LED displays and the power control system, to make sure everything was working smoothly before officially launching for public use.

Design, Seating And Passenger Comfort

The Diesel Hydraulic Multiple Unit (DHMU) has been painted with exterior designs depicting snow-covered mountains. All the coaches are securely linked to one another. The coach with the engine has 19 seats, the adjoining coach also offers 19 seats, while the middle coach accommodates 21 passengers.

Inside, the train features modern lighting and safety systems designed to manage fire-related risks. Passengers will also have access to mobile charging points, adding to comfort and convenience during the journey.

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