Sabarmati ICD rolls out first LNG–diesel DEMU

Ahmedabad: The Integrated Coaching Depot (ICD), Sabarmati has successfully modified Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) train to operate a dual-fuel system. This will be Indian Railways' first LNG–diesel dual-fuel DEMU, marking a significant milestone in cleaner and more cost-efficient rail operations. Each Driving Power Car (DPC) has been fitted with an LNG tank of about 2,200 litres, enabling up to 222 km of daily operation on a single full refill.Divisional railway manager, Ahmedabad division, Ved Prakash, inspected the modified DEMU and termed the project a major step towards environment-friendly rail transport. He said the introduction of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) in DEMU power cars would help reduce diesel dependence while lowering emissions and operating costs.
As part of the initiative, two 1,400 HP DEMU Driving Power Cars have been converted to operate on a dual-fuel system, allowing up to 40% replacement of diesel consumption with LNG. The modified units successfully completed over 2,000 km of field trials and are now running in regular passenger service without any operational issues.Railway officials said the dual-fuel technology is expected to deliver substantial financial savings. Trial-based estimates suggest an annual saving of approximately Rs 11.9 lakh per DPC and about Rs 23.9 lakh per year for an eight-coach DEMU rake equipped with two DPCs.Following successful trials, emission tests by the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) and final statutory approvals, Indian Railways plans to convert eight more DEMU DPCs under the LNG–diesel dual-fuel programme.