Which railway zone became India’s first to switch to compostable bioplastic on trains in August 2025?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 4: Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR).
Explanation:
- In August 2025, the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) became India's first railway zone to extensively utilize compostable bioplastic products on its trains.
- Initiative: Taking a step towards environmental conservation, NFR began replacing plastic utensils, cutlery, and carry bags—used for serving food on trains—with compostable products made from corn starch and other organic materials.
- Benefits of Bioplastics: Unlike conventional plastics, which persist in the environment for hundreds of years, these bioplastics decompose into compost within just a few months. This will lead to a significant reduction in plastic waste generated at railway stations and along the tracks.
- Expansion: This initiative was initially launched on premium trains, such as the Dibrugarh–New Delhi Rajdhani Express.
Additional Facts:
- Headquarters: The headquarters of the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) is located in Maligaon (Guwahati).
- Green Railway Mission: Indian Railways has set a target to become a 'Net Zero Carbon Emitter' by 2030, and the use of bioplastics is an integral part of this mission.
- Other Achievements: NFR has also been a pioneer in promoting local handicrafts under the 'One Station One Product' (OSOP) scheme.
Potential Questions for Upcoming Exams:
Question: By which year has Indian Railways set a target to become a 'Net Zero Carbon Emitter'?
Answer: The year 2030.
Question: What is typically the primary raw material used to produce 'compostable bioplastics'?
Answer: Corn starch, sugarcane, or other renewable organic resources.
Question: Where is the headquarters of the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) located?
Answer: Maligaon, Guwahati (Assam).