India's First LNG Train Rolls Out in Gujarat, Cutting Diesel Emissions

Indian Railways has taken a step towards cleaner railway operations by launching its first LNG-powered train in Gujarat. The train, which was flagged off by Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, marks the country's first use of liquefied natural gas in train operations.

The pilot project involves converting two 1,400 HP Driving Power Cars (DPCs) at the Sabarmati Integrated Coaching Depot into a diesel-LNG dual-fuel system. This configuration allows LNG to replace nearly 40 percent of diesel consumption, cutting both fuel costs and emissions of carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter.

According to trial data, the estimated saving is around ₹11.9 lakh per year for one DPC and about ₹23.9 lakh per year for an eight-coach rake. The regular route for the LNG-powered service has not yet been finalised, with further trials and operational assessments expected to guide deployment.