Indian launches first LNG-diesel dual-fuel DEMU train in Ahmedabad

Indian Railways has achieved a major milestone in green transportation by starting the country’s first LNG-diesel dual-fuel DEMU train at Sabarmati, Ahmedabad. This new train is a step towards reducing pollution and making railway operations more environmentally-friendly.

The 1,400 HP DEMU train has been upgraded with a dual-fuel system, where Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) is used along with. With this system, nearly 40% of  diesel consumption is replaced by LNG, which helps lower fuel costs and reduce emission.

Divisional railways manager of Ahmedabad, Ved Prakash, said that the converted power cars have successfully completed over 2,000 kilometres of field trials. He added that the train is now running in regular passenger service and no operational or technical issues have been reported so far.

LNG is considered a cleaner and safer fuel compared to diesel. It produces less carbon emission, less smoke, and lower noise. Because of this, LNG helps improve air quality, especially in urban and railway station areas

This project is part of Indian railway’s larger plan to adopt alternative energy sources such as LNG, electricity, solar power, and hydrogen. By using dual-fuel technology, railways can reduce dependence on diesel without changing the entire engine system.

Railway officials believe that if this model continues to perform well, the LNG-diesel technology may be expanded to more DEMU and passenger trains across the country.