History & Milestones — Set 3
Indian Railways · इतिहास और मील के पत्थर · Questions 21–30 of 70
Which state has the distinction of having the world's longest railway platform as of 2023?
Correct Answer: D. Karnataka
The Shree Siddharoodha Swamiji Hubballi Station in Karnataka currently holds the record for the world's longest platform at 1,507 meters. This milestone surpassed the previous record held by Gorakhpur station in Uttar Pradesh. Long platforms are designed to accommodate multiple trains or extra-long passenger rakes.
When was the first Rajdhani Express introduced to connect a state capital with the national capital?
Correct Answer: A. 1969
The first Rajdhani Express began service between New Delhi and Howrah on March 1, 1969. It was the first fully air-conditioned train in India capable of reaching speeds of 120 km/h. Rajdhani trains remain the premier luxury service for long-distance travel.
Which company built the first railway line in East India, running from Howrah to Hooghly in 1854?
Correct Answer: C. East Indian Railway (EIR)
The East Indian Railway Company was incorporated in 1845 to build a network connecting Kolkata with the upper provinces. The 24-mile line to Hooghly was the first of its kind in the eastern region. This route eventually became part of the main line connecting the eastern coast to Delhi.
In which year was the 'Shatabdi Express', designed to celebrate the centenary of Nehru's birth, first launched?
Correct Answer: D. 1988
The first Shatabdi Express was introduced in 1988 between New Delhi and Jhansi, later extended to Bhopal. It was the brainchild of Madhavrao Scindia, the then Railway Minister. Shatabdi trains are day-trains that connect major cities with high-speed executive comfort.
The 'Himsagar Express' connects which two furthest points of the Indian railway network?
Correct Answer: A. Jammu Tawi and Kanyakumari
The correct answer is 'Jammu Tawi and Kanyakumari'. Himsagar Express is one of the longest-running trains in India, traveling from the northern hills to the southern tip. It covers a distance of over 3,700 kilometers across 12 states. The train is a symbol of national integration, linking the Himalayas with the Indian Ocean.
Which year saw the introduction of the first 'Garib Rath' express, aiming to provide AC travel to the common man?
Correct Answer: C. 2006
The Garib Rath Express was launched in 2006 between Saharsa and Amritsar. It was designed to provide air-conditioned travel at nearly half the price of standard AC trains. The coaches have more berths to maintain financial viability while offering lower fares.
In 1881, which project was completed to connect Siliguri with a popular hill station using a 2-foot gauge?
Correct Answer: D. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway was an engineering marvel of the late 19th century. It utilized unique loops and switchbacks to navigate the steep gradients of the Himalayas. This heritage line is still famous globally for its historical charm and scenic beauty.
Which city became the first to have an automated ticketing vending machine (ATVM) in India?
Correct Answer: A. Mumbai
Mumbai introduced ATVMs to handle the massive volume of daily commuters on its suburban local network. These machines allowed passengers to buy tickets using smart cards, reducing queues at counters. Digital ticketing is now a standard feature across all major Indian stations.
The 'Lifeline Express' (Jeevan Rekha), the world's first hospital on a train, was started in which year?
Correct Answer: C. 1991
The Lifeline Express was launched in 1991 to provide medical services to people living in remote and inaccessible areas. It is equipped with operation theaters and diagnostic labs. The project is a collaboration between the Impact India Foundation and the national rail provider.
In which city was the first railway station built in India?
Correct Answer: D. Bori Bunder
Bori Bunder, located in Bombay, was the starting point of the first passenger train in 1853. It was later rebuilt as the magnificent Victoria Terminus (now Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus). The site is a historic landmark representing the dawn of the industrial age in India.