Union Home Minister Amit Shah has flagged off India’s first LNG-powered train, marking a step in the Indian Railways’ efforts to adopt cleaner fuels and reduce its dependence on diesel.
The initiative is part of the Railways’ broader strategy to diversify its energy mix and lower emissions from train operations. Liquefied natural gas (LNG) can provide an alternative to conventional diesel fuel and has the potential to reduce emissions when used in suitable rail applications.
The introduction of LNG-powered rolling stock comes as Indian Railways works towards improving energy efficiency and increasing the use of cleaner energy sources. The national transporter has also been pursuing electrification, renewable power and other measures to reduce its carbon footprint.
The government has set a target of eliminating diesel use in Railways by 2030, with electrification remaining the primary route for reducing diesel consumption across the network.
The LNG train demonstration is expected to provide operational experience with the use of natural gas in railway applications and assess its potential for wider deployment.
The move adds another element to India’s efforts to modernise railway operations while reducing fossil-fuel consumption and supporting the transition towards cleaner transportation.