Long cherished dream, will ease pressure on NH: LG
Irfan Tramboo
Srinagar, Dec 21: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today congratulated the Indian Railways on the first-ever Food Corporation of India (FCI) food-grain freight train reaching Kashmir, calling it a “long-cherished dream” that will ease pressure on National Highway-44.
In a post on ‘X’, Lok Bhavan stated that the LG praised the Indian Railways for connecting Kashmir to the national freight network.
“Lieutenant Governor said this is undoubtedly a very memorable occasion and realises our long-cherished dream of connecting the Kashmir region to the national freight network,” the post read.
As per Lok Bhavan, the LG noted that the movement of freight trains will benefit people, enterprises, and infrastructure projects without the risk of adverse weather conditions throughout the year and ease the pressure on National Highway-44.
The LG also expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for making the economic progress of J&K an integral part of Bharat’s rapid growth.
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Notably, in a major milestone for rail-based logistics in the Kashmir valley, the FCI freight train carrying around 1,384 tonnes of foodgrains in 21 wagons reached the Anantnag Goods Terminal today from Ajitwal Railway Station in Punjab.
This marks the first instance of bulk foodgrain transportation by rail directly to South Kashmir, formally integrating the Valley with the national freight rail network.
Calling it a landmark achievement, the FCI officials credited the Centre, the Railways, and the Ministry of Food for the initiative.
“It is a great step by the Government, especially the Railways and the Food Ministry. In just a few hours, Over 1,300 metric tonnes reached here, which reflects the efforts made by the Government,” an FCI official said.
The official added that rail connectivity will ensure uninterrupted and efficient supply of foodgrains, while reducing transportation costs and saving time.
“Earlier, due to rains, the National Highway would remain closed, creating difficulties. Now distribution will become easier, charges will come down, and a lot of time will be saved. We are no longer worried about roads or weather conditions,” he said.
Officials pointed out that the arrival of foodgrains by rail builds on earlier successful freight operations in the Valley, including cement and automobile consignments.
“Earlier, cement consignments were successfully transported through freight trains, and several consignments of automobiles have also reached Kashmir by rail. This shows the growing reliability of rail freight connectivity,” the official added.
According to authorities, 42 more wagons carrying around 2,600 metric tonnes of foodgrains are expected to arrive in the next few days, further strengthening the supply chain.
The move is expected to boost local markets, strengthen the regional agricultural economy, create employment avenues, and benefit farmers.
“It will increase employment avenues and benefit local markets and farmers. Transport rates will reduce by more than half, which will ultimately help consumers,” the official said.
Pertinent to mention, the commissioning of the Anantnag Goods Terminal has opened new avenues for the movement of essential commodities and reinforces the Valley’s connectivity with the rest of the country through efficient and sustainable rail transport.
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