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Rudrastra: India’s Longest Freight Train: 4.5 km Length, 7 Engines & Its Importance for Govt Exams

Indian Railways has set a new benchmark with ‘Rudrastra’, the longest freight train in India, spanning 4.5 km. Comprising 354 wagons and powered by 7 engines, this mega train enhances freight efficiency and reduces operational costs. A must-know topic for competitive exams like UPSC, SSC, and PSC, Rudrastra reflects India’s growing logistics prowess.

Rudrastra – India’s Longest Freight Train: Key Details
On August 7, Indian Railways successfully operated ‘Rudrastra’, a massive freight train formed by coupling six empty BOXN rakes. Here’s what makes it remarkable:
Route: Ran 200 km from Ganjkhwaja (UP) to Garhwa Road (Jharkhand) in 5 hours at 40 km/h average speed.

Composition:
354 wagons (combined from six rakes).
7 locomotives for seamless operation.
Departure Time: Left Ganjkhwaja station at 2:20 PM.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw shared a video of Rudrastra on X (Twitter), calling it “Bharat’s longest freight train.”

Why Rudrastra Matters for Competitive Exams
Logistics & Infrastructure Development – A key topic for UPSC, SSC, and PSC exams.
Cost & Time Efficiency – Reduces crew, scheduling, and fuel expenses.
Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC) – Part of India’s freight modernization.
Government Schemes – Aligns with Gati Shakti and Railway Modernization initiatives.
Current Affairs – Recent developments in Indian Railways are frequently asked.

Exam Questions & Answers
Q1. What is the length of India’s longest freight train, ‘Rudrastra’?
Ans: 4.5 kilometres (Combined from six rakes).
Q2. How many wagons and engines were used in Rudrastra?
Ans: 354 wagons and 7 locomotives.
Q3. Which railway zone operated Rudrastra?
Ans: East Central Railway (ECR) – From Ganjkhwaja (UP) to Garhwa Road (Jharkhand).
Q4. How does Rudrastra improve freight operations?
Ans: By reducing crew costs, optimizing routes, and increasing freight speed.
Q5. Why is Rudrastra significant for India’s logistics sector?
Ans: It enhances freight capacity, cuts operational costs, and supports economic growth.

Final Thoughts
Rudrastra is a milestone in Indian Railways, showcasing better coordination, cost-saving measures, and freight efficiency. For UPSC, SSC, PSC, and railway exams, understanding such innovations is crucial. Stay updated with MyEntrance.in for more exam-focused insights!