India's First LNG Train Launched: ₹1,542Cr Gujarat Projects
In a massive boost to sustainable transport, Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah officially flagged off India's first LNG-powered train from Sabarmati, Gujarat, on Sunday, September 27, 2026. This historic move, accompanied by the inauguration of various infrastructure projects worth over ₹1,542 crore, marks a new era for the Indian Railways' commitment to green energy and advanced technology.
A Green Revolution on Tracks
The inaugural run of the diesel-plus-LNG dual-fuel DEMU train took place on the route between Sabarmati and Mahesana Junction. This technological leap is designed to significantly lower the environmental footprint of rail travel across the nation.
Technical Breakthroughs
The project involves a sophisticated dual-fuel system that allows the locomotive to operate more efficiently. Key technical highlights include:
- Fuel Efficiency: The system allows LNG to replace approximately 40% of traditional diesel consumption.
- Power and Capacity: The project utilizes two 1,400 HP Driving Power Cars (DPCs) converted to the dual-fuel system.
- Range and Storage: Each DPC is equipped with a 2,200-litre LNG tank, holding between 850-900 kg of fuel, which provides a travel range of roughly 1,600 km.
Following extensive field trials covering more than 2,000 km, this technology is set to reduce fuel expenditures and drastically cut down on harmful emissions, including carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter.
Massive ₹1,542 Crore Infrastructure Boost
Beyond the eco-friendly locomotive, the event highlighted a series of critical developments aimed at modernizing the railway network in Gujarat. Amit Shah inaugurated and laid the foundation for several high-impact projects designed to enhance capacity and safety.
1. Advanced Locomotive Maintenance
A new WAG-12 locomotive maintenance shed is being established at Sabarmati. With an investment of ₹700 crore, this facility will be capable of servicing 300 high-horsepower electric engines, ensuring the reliability of heavy-duty freight and passenger movement.
2. Enhancing Safety with Kavach
To bolster passenger security, the Kavach Automatic Train Protection System is being deployed across 404 km of the Ahmedabad division. This critical safety initiative comes with a dedicated budget of ₹411 crore.
3. Signalling and Capacity Expansion
Other key investments aimed at streamlining operations include:
- Automatic Block Signalling: A ₹118.83 crore project to cover 122.57 km of track.
- Line Doubling: A ₹313.27 crore project to double the 21-km Sabarmati-Sarkhej railway line, which is slated for completion by March 2028.
"These infrastructure developments are vital for enhancing passenger safety, operational capacity, and environmental sustainability," noted Amit Shah during the ceremony.