Indian Railways launches aluminium freight rake

18 Oct 2022 CW Team

Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw today unveiled India's first all-aluminium freight rail rakes developed by Hindalco. The aluminium rakes were created with the goal of modernising freight transportation and enabling significant carbon savings for Indian Railways. According to reports, the rakes are 180 tonnes lighter than existing steel rakes, can carry 5-10 per cent more payload, consume less energy, and have negligible wear and tear on rolling stock and rails. Vaishnav signalled the departure of a 61-wagon rake from Bhubaneswar station. These waggons will be used to transport coal to Hindalco's Aditya Smelter in Lapanga, Odisha. These waggons reduce CO2 emissions by 14,500 tonne, have increased carrying capacity, use less energy, and are corrosion-resistant. They are completely recyclable and will look as good as new after 30 years. These aluminium wagons will enable achieving the state’s climate goals.

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