Ahmedabad, Jan 30 (NationPress) Indian Railways has made a significant advancement towards sustainable rail travel with the launch of the nation's inaugural passenger train powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) in Ahmedabad.

The train has commenced regular services after undergoing thorough trials, as confirmed by officials on Friday, and can travel up to 2,200 kilometres on a single fuel tank.

The LNG-based dual fuel train was assessed at the Integrated Coaching Depot in Sabarmati by the Ahmedabad Divisional Railway Manager, Ved Prakash.

Speaking to the press, he stated that this initiative signifies a transition from traditional diesel operations to a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly technology.

“This marks the first instance of Indian Railways operating a passenger service utilizing LNG. The system provides nearly threefold advantages over diesel in terms of efficiency, cost, and environmental effects,” he elaborated.

As part of the initiative, Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) trains and their Driving Power Cars (DPC), which previously relied solely on diesel, are being upgraded to operate using a combination of diesel and LNG.

Two power cars, each with an output of approximately 1,400 horsepower, have already been successfully converted under this program.

Railway officials noted that both units have surpassed field trials exceeding 2,000 kilometres and are now part of standard passenger operations without any disruptions.

Officials emphasized that the adoption of LNG leads to a substantial reduction in exhaust emissions. The levels of carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter are significantly lower than those of diesel-only operations, resulting in improved air quality along railway routes.

Ved Prakash mentioned that the engine output and operational reliability remain intact under the dual fuel system, which facilitates automatic fuel switching based on availability.

Financial savings are a vital aspect of this initiative.

According to railway estimates, the conversion can yield annual savings of about Rs 11.9 lakh per DPC. For an eight-coach DEMU train equipped with two power cars, the savings could potentially reach around Rs 23.9 lakh annually, owing to reduced fuel costs and fewer refuelling needs.

Each modified power car is fitted with an LNG tank designed for long-distance operations.

Current trials are being executed on the Mahesana–Sabarmati route, with officials expressing that this technology is anticipated to be expanded to an additional eight to ten trains following the completion of essential tests and approvals from the Research Designs and Standards Organisation.

Indian Railways authorities stated that the introduction of LNG-powered passenger trains embodies their broader mission to lower emissions, cut operating costs, and modernize services through cleaner energy solutions.