Indian Railways Ramps Up Battery and Green Fuel Engine Adoption

Indian Railways has electrified almost its entire rail network. Out of the total 70,117 route kilometres (rkm), only about 405 rkm are yet to be covered.  

With most routes now operating on electric traction, the railways is turning to areas where diesel engines are still being used. 

Diesel Fleet Under Assessment 

As per the reports, around 2,500 diesel locomotives remain in service across the network. These engines are mainly used for short and medium-distance work such as yard operations, shunting and last-mile freight movement.  

Such services often run on tracks that are not fully electrified or where overhead power supply is inconsistent. 

Battery-Powered Engines in Trials 

To reduce diesel usage, the railways has been testing battery-powered locomotives for specific functions. Pilot projects using lithium-ion and lithium ferro phosphate (LFP) batteries began around 6 years ago. One project involved retrofitting a 700 horsepower diesel locomotive with an LFP battery system by Concord Control Systems. 

Chittaranjan Locomotive Works was tasked with building 10 battery-powered locomotives as part of early trials. In another initiative, Eastern Railway’s Kanchrapara workshop converted a motor coach into a battery-cum-25 kV shunting engine, intended for use within yards and depots. 

Hydrogen Traction Testing 

Hydrogen-based traction is also being tested for higher power needs. Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said trials have started for a hydrogen-powered train set with 10 coaches and a power output of 2,400 kW on broad gauge. Separately, a 3,100 horsepower hydrogen locomotive propulsion system is under development for NTPC. 

Operational Background 

Passenger services have largely shifted to electric traction, while diesel locomotives continue to be used for certain freight and support operations. The battery and hydrogen trials are aimed at these remaining areas rather than replacing electrification. 

Read More:  Indian Railways’ Track Upgrade Push: FY25 Renewals Hit 6,851 km, High-Speed Network Expands to 84,244 km! 

Conclusion 

With electrification close to completion, Indian Railways is examining alternatives to diesel for limited operations. Battery and hydrogen-powered engines are being tested mainly for yards, shunting and short-haul services, as part of a gradual reduction in diesel use. 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.   
 
Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.