Srinagar, Apr 30 (KNO): Senior officials of Northern Railway on Thursday held threadbare discussions with fruit growers and traders to strengthen the transportation of horticultural produce from Kashmir to markets across the country and modernize rail-based cargo logistics in the Valley.
According to the details available with the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) the high-level delegation of the railway officials travelled in an arranged inspection coach from Srinagar to Baramulla via Budgam, covering key stations including Pattan and Sopore. The visit was aimed at assessing infrastructure gaps and identifying ways to ensure seamless movement of fruits and vegetables.
The meeting was attended by Principal Chief Commercial Manager Parveen Pandey, ACM Jammu-Srinagar Jaswant Singh, and other senior officials. The fruit growers’ delegation was led by Bashir Ahmad Basheer, President of the New Kashmir Fruit Association (NKFA), along with key representatives of the trade.
A major focus of the interaction was the introduction of temperature-controlled (AC/refrigerated) cargo trains to transport highly perishable produce such as apples, cherries, pears, plums, and walnuts.
Stakeholders stressed that such facilities are essential to maintain quality and reduce post-harvest losses, particularly during peak export seasons.
The proposal also includes improving inbound logistics to ensure timely supply of essential commodities like onions, potatoes, mangoes, and melons into the Valley.
To streamline bulk handling, Sopore Railway Station and Baramulla Railway Station have been identified for development of yard-based loading facilities. Additionally, phased development of cargo infrastructure has been proposed at Anantnag, Awantipora, and Pampore.
Operational bottlenecks at Budgam and Srinagar stations were also highlighted, with traders urging swift intervention to resolve issues impacting loading efficiency.
Growers and traders raised concerns over last year’s challenges, including lengthy security checks, restricted access, and delays in handling consignments. To address these issues, the delegation proposed installation of modern security infrastructure such as high-sensitivity scanners and sensor-based systems, which would reduce manual intervention and speed up cargo processing.
The delegation noted that a Parcel Van (VP) service currently operates five days a week from Katra to Mumbai for cherry consignments. Railway officials informed that the service is under consideration for expansion to a seven-day schedule, a move expected to significantly benefit growers dealing with highly perishable produce.
The joint team also visited orchards in Tangmarg to understand production patterns and align logistics planning with on-ground realities.
Railway officials assured that proposals for AC cargo services, upgraded infrastructure, and improved handling systems will be examined on priority.
Fruit traders expressed optimism that enhanced rail connectivity would improve efficiency, reduce transportation costs, and boost the competitiveness of Kashmir’s horticulture sector.
The delegation also appreciated the continued support of the Ministry of Railways under Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, and welcomed improved connectivity initiatives such as the Vande Bharat Express on the Jammu-Srinagar route—(KNO)