India Launches First LNG-Powered Train from Ahmedabad, Aiming for Net Zero by 2030

Within months of launching its first hydrogen train, Indian Railways has introduced its first LNG train. Home Minister Amit Shah flagged off the LNG train from Sabarmati station in Gujarat on Sunday. This initiative is part of Indian Railways’ efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to more sustainable transportation methods.

Details of the LNG Train

The LNG-powered train utilizes a dual-fuel diesel-plus-LNG system developed for its Driving Power Cars (DPCs). At the Sabarmati Integrated Coaching Depot, two DPCs, each with a power capacity of 1,400 HP, have been modified to operate with this dual-fuel technology. The system allows locomotives to use LNG alongside diesel, which is expected to substitute around 40% of diesel consumption.

The converted DPCs have completed over 2,000 km of field trials to assess the technology’s performance and reliability. The dual-fuel arrangement could lower fuel costs and emissions, including carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides. Each DPC is equipped with an LNG tank that holds approximately 2,200 litres, supporting around 1,600 km of operations on a full tank.

Indian Railways’ Sustainability Goals

Amit Shah also discussed various infrastructure and operational advancements. He noted that 97% of bio-toilets have been installed in trains, and 87% of LBH coaches produced during the Prime Minister’s tenure were manufactured in India. Shah highlighted that railway electrification has increased by 70%, with a significant rise in the budget for railway safety and locomotive production capacity.

Shah stated that Indian Railways aims to reduce diesel consumption from 293 crore litres in 2015-16 to 108 crore litres by 2024-25, ultimately targeting zero diesel usage by 2030. He emphasized the rapid pace of railway electrification, which has grown from 75 km in 2010-11 to 7,188 km in 2023-24, with 99.6% of electrification completed.

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