Amit Shah flags off India’s first LNG-powered train from Sabarmati

Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah inaugurated India's first LNG-powered train at Sabarmati on Sunday, signaling the country's move towards alternative fuels for railway operations. The train, developed using a diesel-plus-LNG dual-fuel system, was flagged off by Shah and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel. The aim is to lessen dependence on conventional diesel fuel and promote the use of alternative energy sources in railway operations.

Two 1,400 HP Driving Power Cars (DPCs) at the Sabarmati Integrated Coaching Depot have been converted for the dual-fuel system. Over 2,000 km of field trials have been conducted on the converted DPCs to test the performance and reliability of the technology. The dual-fuel system allows LNG to replace up to around 40 per cent of diesel consumption, resulting in reduced fuel expenditure and emissions, including carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter.

Each converted 1,400 HP DPC carries a 2,200-litre LNG tank that holds about 850-900 kg of usable LNG, enabling the train to operate for approximately 1,600 km on a full LNG fill. The system can automatically switch between LNG and diesel based on fuel availability, retaining the power and operating capability of the conventional diesel engine.

This innovation has the potential to significantly reduce diesel usage, with diesel consumption falling from 293 crore litres in 2015-16 to 108 crore litres in 2024-25. India plans to eventually achieve zero diesel use for traction, and the country is set to join the elite club with the launch of a hydrogen-powered train.