Indian Railways has operationalised the nation's first liquefied natural gas (LNG)-diesel dual-fuel diesel electric multiple unit (DEMU) train following integration of 2,200-litre LNG receiving, storage and regasification systems supplied by INOX India Limited (INOXCVA). The systems were integrated with 1,400 HP Driving Power Cars (DPUs) to enable dual-fuel operation on short and medium distance routes. INOXCVA is the sole manufacturer and supplier in India to have delivered, tested and validated such cryogenic systems for rail applications.

The technology allows substitution of up to 40 per cent of diesel with LNG, which is expected to improve fuel efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions on the DEMU fleet. An initial conversion of ten DPUs was developed under Indian Railways' Alternative Fuels Division and two earlier units completed trials and certification at Sabarmati division. Following successful validation, Indian Railways is prepared to induct additional units while INOXCVA stands ready to fulfil its contract.

The LNG fuel tank system was delivered through CLH Gaseous Fuel Applications Pvt. Ltd., and CLH handled engine conversion to dual-fuel operation combining LNG and diesel. INOXCVA has indicated plans to double on-board LNG capacity to extend range beyond current shorter hauls, which would support longer medium distance services. The company emphasised that LNG serves as a transition fuel with liquid hydrogen envisaged as a longer term zero emission option, reflecting ongoing research and development efforts.

INOX India Limited manufactures cryogenic storage, regasification and distribution systems with operations across India, Brazil and Europe and after-sales support in twenty-five countries. The deployment is presented as a pivotal step in the decarbonisation of rail mobility and aligns with India's clean mobility and energy security objectives. Further commercial deliveries are expected as part of broader efforts to deploy energy efficient and environmentally responsible rail operations.