Diesel trains to make a slow but swift comeback to Indian Railways

Technology Sustainability

Posted by Rail Bureau on 2024-11-07 16:16:57 |

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In a new directive issued at the end of October, the Railway Board has called on all zones to explore selective use of diesel locomotives on some mail and express trains, even as it works toward the ambitious goal of full electrification. This proposal aims to optimize the use of available diesel engines for specific services, primarily to ensure flexibility in case of emergencies and operational needs, while the electrification push continues across the country.

Each zone’s Chief Passenger Traffic Managers (CPTMs) are currently evaluating options for running diesel locomotives on select routes. The plan, set for rollout by early next year, has already seen significant groundwork, with zones like Western Railway (WR) and Central Railway (CR) finalizing lists of trains that can be powered by diesel locomotives. Notable trains, including the Gujarat Express, Saurashtra Mail, and Shri Ganganagar Humsafar Express, are among those slated for diesel operations under this plan.

However, one major constraint is the Head-on-Generation (HOG) technology, which powers train amenities directly from the locomotive’s electrical system—a feature not present in most diesel engines. This limitation has already impacted zones like South East Central Railway (SECR), which has highlighted its inability to deploy diesel locomotives

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on its trains due to the lack of HOG capability in their diesel fleet.

The proposal for limited diesel usage is both a practical and symbolic move, aiming to retain flexibility for Indian Railways as the network modernizes. Although the electrification effort remains the primary focus, maintaining a small reserve of diesel-powered services provides a backup for regions awaiting complete electrification. This selective approach balances operational needs with environmental goals, as diesel engines gradually transition to supporting roles on the network.

As CPTMs finalize the logistics, Indian Railways is poised to usher in a new era by early next year, where diesel locomotives will play a limited, yet purposeful role, even as electric engines take precedence across the rail network. For rail fans and passengers alike, these changes signal a dynamic phase, blending tradition with modernization on India’s iconic railway system.

Tags - Electrification, Ashwini Vaishnaw, Modi, Railways, Indian Railways, Diesel Locomotives, Electrification, Railway Modernization, Railway Board Directive, Mail Express Trains, Head-on-Generation (HOG), Western Railway (WR), Central Railway (CR), South East Central Railway (SECR), Gujarat Express, Saurashtra Mail, Shri Ganganagar Humsafar Express, Sustainability, Railway Operations

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