Q: Which 'GEMS' year has been targeted for 100% electrification of the Broad Gauge network?
Answer: 2023
Explanation: Indian Railways aimed to finish the electrification of all its Broad Gauge tracks by the end of 2023. This is a vital milestone for the 'Green Railways' mission. Most of the major states have already reached this target ahead of time.
Q: What 'GEMS' material is used in the bacteria-based bio-toilets of Indian Railways?
Answer: Inoculum (Anaerobic bacteria)
Explanation: Anaerobic bacteria, known as Inoculum, convert human waste into water and methane gas. These bacteria are specially cultured to survive in different temperature conditions within the toilet tanks. This technology was developed in collaboration with the DRDO.
Q: The 'GEMS' fact: Which is the first station in India to receive a 'Platinum' rating from IGBC?
Answer: Secunderabad
Explanation: Secunderabad Railway Station was the first to achieve this highest possible sustainability rating. It features solar power, 100% LED lighting, and extensive rainwater harvesting. The rating is a testament to the station's holistic eco-friendly management.
Q: Which 'GEMS' fuel is saved by using the 'Head on Generation' (HOG) system in trains?
Answer: Diesel
Explanation: HOG technology eliminates the need for diesel generators in power cars by taking power from the overhead lines. This saves over 2,000 liters of diesel for a single 1,000 km trip. It also helps in reducing the overall weight of the train.
Q: What is the 'GEMS' color of the coaches that represent the eco-friendly 'Green' trains?
Answer: Green
Explanation: While coach colors can vary by train type (like Red for Rajdhani), green is the universal color used for environment-related logos and branding. Some specific local trains or special eco-projects are painted green to signify their low-impact nature. It represents the 'Mission Green' initiative of the railways.
Q: The 'GEMS' term for the process of converting old diesel locomotives to electric ones is?
Answer: Loco-conversion
Explanation: Indian Railways has successfully converted diesel locomotives into high-power electric ones at the Varanasi workshop. This process gives a new life to old assets while making them environment-friendly. It is a cost-effective way to transition towards a carbon-free fleet.
Q: Which 'GEMS' organization collaborated with Indian Railways to develop bio-toilets?
Answer: DRDO
Explanation: The Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) developed the microbial technology for bio-digester toilets. Originally meant for high-altitude army camps, it was adapted for the vast railway network. It has solved the long-standing problem of open track defecation.
Q: What is the 'GEMS' objective of installing 'Solar Trees' at railway stations?
Answer: To generate solar power in less space
Explanation: Solar trees feature panels arranged like leaves on a metal structure, maximizing sun exposure in a vertical design. This is ideal for crowded station premises where ground space is limited. They provide green energy for station lighting and mobile charging points.
Q: The 'GEMS' term for a railway track section that is free from any human waste discharge is?
Answer: Green Corridor
Explanation: A Green Corridor is a route where 100% of trains have bio-toilets, ensuring no discharge on the tracks. This initiative keeps the track environment clean and prevents the erosion of railway sleepers. The Rameswaram-Manamadurai section was India's first such corridor.
Q: Which 'GEMS' energy source is the Indian Railways targeting to generate 20 GW of power by 2030?
Answer: Solar
Explanation: Indian Railways aims to set up massive solar plants on its vacant lands to fulfill its entire energy requirement. This will make it the first 'Green Railway' of its size in the world. It will reduce the carbon footprint by millions of tonnes annually.