‘Rudrastra’, India’s longest freight train, demonstrates Indian Railways’ commitment to efficiency by combining six rakes into one powerful formation that speeds up cargo movement and reduces operating costs. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

‘Rudrastra’, India’s longest freight train, demonstrates Indian Railways’ commitment to efficiency by combining six rakes into one powerful formation that speeds up cargo movement and reduces operating costs.
Photo: www.maritimegateway.com

‘Rudrastra’ Strengthens Freight Capacity

Indian Railways successfully operated ‘Rudrastra’ on August 7, creating the country’s longest goods train. The 4.5-kilometer convoy comprised 354 wagons powered by seven locomotives, departing from Ganjkhwaja and arriving at Garhwa Road in five hours.

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This achievement reduces the need for separate crew assignments, scheduling, and routing for multiple rakes. By integrating them into one formation, the Railways frees up track space, enabling more trains to operate and improving network efficiency.

The journey began on the Dedicated Freight Corridor from Ganjkhwaja to Sonnagar before continuing on the standard Indian Railways network. This integration showcased the ability to blend specialized freight lines with existing infrastructure for maximum output.

‘Rudrastra’ Delivers Operational and Economic Benefits

Railway officials emphasize that running multiple long-haul trains together cuts manpower and fuel costs while boosting freight speed. This strategy aligns with global logistics trends, where larger trains reduce per-ton costs and environmental impact.

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw shared a video of ‘Rudrastra’ on X, highlighting its role in modernizing India’s freight system. Eastern Central Railway described the operation as a sign of effective coordination within the DDU Division.

If replicated across other freight corridors, ‘Rudrastra’-style operations could transform cargo movement nationwide. They would improve turnaround times, increase train frequency, and strengthen India’s position in the global freight market.

Source: www.financialexpress.com

FAQ

What is ‘Rudrastra’ in Indian Railways?

‘Rudrastra’ is India’s longest freight train at 4.5 km, formed by coupling six BOXN rakes into one unit. It improves efficiency and cuts operational costs.

How fast did ‘Rudrastra’ complete its journey?

‘Rudrastra’ covered 200 km from Ganjkhwaja to Garhwa Road in five hours at an average speed of 40 km/h.

Can ‘Rudrastra’’s model be used on other routes?

Yes, Indian Railways plans to apply similar operations across key freight corridors to boost capacity and reduce costs.

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