India Launches First LNG-Powered Train To Cut Diesel Use

AHMEDABAD-India’s first LNG-powered train was flagged off from Sabarmati on September 27 by Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah marking the introduction of liquefied natural gas (LNG) as an alternative fuel for railway operations in the country.

The Modi government earmarked Gujarat for the environmental initiative.

It is aimed at reducing dependence on conventional diesel fuel and promoting the use of alternative energy sources in railway operations.

The train uses a diesel-plus-LNG dual-fuel system developed for its Driving Power Cars (DPCs). Two 1,400 HP DPCs at the Sabarmati Integrated Coaching Depot have been converted to the dual-fuel system, allowing LNG to be used alongside diesel.

Under the system, LNG can replace up to around 40 per cent of diesel consumption. According to trial data released by the Railways, LNG use is expected to reduce fuel expenditure and emissions, including carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides and particulate matter.

The dual-fuel system allows the engine to switch between LNG and diesel depending on fuel availability, providing operational flexibility. The system has been designed to retain the power and operational capability of a conventional diesel engine while enabling partial substitution of diesel with LNG.

Shah also inaugurated the Rs 700-crore WAG-12 locomotive maintenance shed at Sabarmati and flagged off a WAG-12 electric locomotive. (IANS)