Amit Shah to Launch India's First LNG-Powered Train in Ahmedabad
Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah is set to flag off India's first LNG-powered train from Sabarmati Railway Station in Ahmedabad on September 27. The initiative marks a significant step towards using alternative and cleaner fuels in Indian Railways.
The LNG-powered train uses a dual-fuel system, allowing its engines to operate on both liquefied natural gas (LNG) and diesel. Two Driving Power Cars (DPCs), each rated at 1,400 HP, have been converted to the LNG-diesel system.
According to railway officials, the converted DPCs have undergone over 2,000 km of field trials to assess the performance and reliability of the technology. The system is designed to replace up to around 40% of diesel consumption with LNG, while retaining the flexibility to switch between the two fuels depending on availability.
The dual-fuel technology is expected to reduce diesel consumption, fuel expenditure, and emissions, including carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. Railways estimate annual fuel savings of around ₹11.9 lakh per DPC, or approximately ₹23.9 lakh for an eight-coach rake.