India's first LNG-powered train cuts diesel use by 40% in Gujarat launch

Indian Railways has launched its first LNG-powered train in Gujarat, using a diesel-LNG dual-fuel system that replaces nearly 40% of diesel consumption. Two 1,400 HP power cars at Sabarmati depot were converted, aiming to cut carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate emissions while lowering fuel costs. The project was flagged off alongside other railway investments including a Kavach safety system covering 404 km, automatic signalling, a Rs 700 crore maintenance shed for WAG-12 electric locomotives, and a line doubling project worth Rs 313 crore. The dual-fuel approach is a practical step for reducing diesel use in rail operations, though the article doesn't detail LNG supply infrastructure or cost comparisons. The broader package also boosts freight capacity and safety, with the WAG-12 shed supporting up to 300 electric locomotives and the doubling project improving connectivity toward Dholera. These moves align with India's push to modernize rail while cutting emissions, but scaling LNG adoption will depend on fuel availability and network-wide retrofits.