Kashmir to capital - Vocal for local on track

In a transformative move for Kashmir’s apple industry, Indian Railways has launched a dedicated parcel train service to transport fresh apples from the Kashmir Valley to Delhi’s bustling markets. On September 11, 2025, two parcel vans, each carrying 23 metric tonnes of apples, departed from Budgam station one bound for Delhi and another for Jammu. This initiative marks the beginning of a daily time-tabled parcel train service, set to commence on September 13, 2025, between Budgam and Adarsh Nagar, Delhi. The service, comprising eight parcel vans, will depart Budgam at 6:15 AM and arrive in Delhi at 5:00 AM the next day, ensuring apples reach the market fresh and early. Indian Railways has also pledged to add more vans if demand surges, demonstrating its commitment to supporting the region’s horticulture sector.

Kashmir’s apple industry, a cornerstone of the region’s economy, contributes significantly to the livelihoods of countless families and the state’s GDP. However, growers have long faced challenges due to unreliable transportation. Before this rail service, apples were primarily transported via trucks along the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway. This route, plagued by frequent landslides, harsh weather, and traffic congestion, often led to delays, causing apples to rot in transit and resulting in substantial losses for growers. A single highway closure could strand trucks for days, compromising the quality and market value of this delicate crop. Growers like Mohammad Lateef Jan from Sopore have expressed relief, noting that timely delivery ensures better prices and fresher produce in Delhi’s Azadpur mandi.

The new Joint Parcel Product-Rapid Cargo Service (JPP-RCS) train, approved by the Railway Board on August 20, 2025, covers 845 km in approximately 23 hours, offering a faster, more cost-effective alternative to road transport. With eight parcel vans and a seating-cum-luggage rake, the train provides ample cargo space, and intermediate loading/unloading facilities at Bari Brahmana enhance accessibility for traders. Uchit Singhal, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager of the Jammu Division, emphasized that the service eliminates registration fees, making it more economical. Beyond apples, the train will also carry dry fruits, handicrafts, and other goods, fostering broader market access for Kashmir’s products.

This initiative aligns seamlessly with Indian Railways’ “Vocal for Local” objective, a vision rooted in promoting indigenous products and empowering local economies. By connecting Kashmir’s growers directly to national and potentially international markets, the railway service amplifies the visibility and competitiveness of the region’s premium apples, saffron, walnuts, and pashmina shawls. The Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), fully operational since June 2025, has already reduced travel times and boosted connectivity. The recent freight train carrying cement to Anantnag on August 9, 2025, further underscores the railway’s role in driving economic growth by supporting infrastructure development and reducing costs.

Growers like Ghulam Nabi from Pulwama have hailed this as a “historic moment,” advocating for a fully dedicated apple train to meet the region’s vast production needs. The service not only mitigates losses from highway disruptions but also aligns with Indian Railways’ environmental goals, as rail transport generates up to 80% less CO2 than trucks. The RailOne app further simplifies the process, allowing traders to book vans online and track shipments in real-time, enhancing efficiency and transparency.

As Kashmir’s apple season peaks, this rail service promises to stabilize markets, ensure fresher produce, and bolster the region’s economy. By addressing longstanding logistical challenges and championing local produce, Indian Railways is not just transporting apples it’s delivering hope and prosperity to Kashmir’s growers, reinforcing the “Vocal for Local” ethos with every journey.