Indian Railways has operationalised the nation’s first LNG–diesel dual-fuel DEMU train at Sabarmati, Ahmedabad. INOX India Limited (INOXCVA), a global provider of cryogenic technology solutions, supplied advanced 2,200-litre LNG Receiving, Storage and Regasification Systems for integration with 1,400 HP Driving Power Cars (DPUs) of Dual-Fuel Diesel Electric Multiple Unit (DEMU) trains.

Designed for seamless dual-fuel operations using LNG and diesel, the systems enable up to 40 per cent substitution of diesel with LNG, significantly reducing diesel consumption and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. The deployment advances energy-efficient, low-emission rail mobility and strengthens INOX India’s role in supporting rail decarbonisation.

The initiative was conceived by the erstwhile Indian Railways Alternative Fuels Division (IRAOF) to convert an initial batch of 10 DPUs from conventional diesel engines to a dual-fuel hybrid model operating on LNG and diesel. INOXCVA delivered two units earlier, which underwent extensive trials and certifications by Indian Railways at the Sabarmati Division. Following successful validation, additional units are set for induction, with INOXCVA prepared to deliver them under its contract. The technology enables nearly 40 per cent diesel substitution, enhancing energy efficiency and environmental performance. DEMUs are widely deployed across India on short- and medium-distance routes.

Commenting on the milestone, Deepak Acharya, Chief Executive Officer, INOX India Ltd, said, “At INOX India, we take immense pride in partnering with Indian Railways on its journey toward green mobility by delivering world-class cryogenic systems that enable cleaner, more efficient fuel pathways. The ability to substitute up to 40 per cent of diesel with LNG is not just a technological milestone—it marks a decisive shift in how large-scale rail mobility can be decarbonised while enhancing operational efficiency and long-term sustainability. As Indian Railways accelerates the adoption of dual-fuel solutions across its network, we see LNG as a powerful transition fuel and liquid hydrogen as the next frontier for zero-emission rail locomotives. Backed by deep R&D capabilities and decades of cryogenic expertise, INOXCVA remains at the forefront of innovation—developing future-ready solutions that align with India’s clean mobility vision and reinforce the nation’s long-term energy security.”

The LNG fuel tank system was delivered to Indian Railways through CLH Gaseous Fuel Applications Pvt Ltd, INOXCVA is the only technology provider in India to have successfully delivered, tested and validated cryogenic LNG systems for rail applications. Plans are underway to double the on-board LNG capacity, enabling longer travel distances beyond current shorter hauls. CLH Gaseous Fuel was responsible for converting the engines from standalone diesel to dual-fuel (LNG + diesel) operation.