In a historic first, Pakistan Railways has launched the trial run of the country’s largest and heaviest freight train. The mammoth train, spanning over a kilometer and 2500 feet, set off on its maiden voyage from Karachi Paper Yard to Kotri.
The unprecedented event marked by the GEU-40 locomotive, boasting 4563 horsepower, hauling a gigantic train of 50 hopper wagons. These wagons loaded with a staggering 3000 tonnes of cargo, bringing the total weight of the train to 4132 tons. Remarkably, the operation managed by a lean team of just three crew members, efficiently handling both ends of the train.
The trial run showcased the impressive capabilities of the train, clocking speeds over 60 km per hour across a stretch of 127 km. After successfully completing the trial and shedding the extra load, the freight train continued its journey to the final destination.
This milestone is a significant step forward as Pakistan Railways gears up to strengthen its freight operations. This move is in line with the government’s axle load limits and the increasing demand for intra-country cargo transportation from the port.
Armed with a fleet of 53 robust GEU locomotives, the Railway Department well-equipped to augment its operational capacity to cater to the escalating needs.
