Fresh cherries from the orchards of Kashmir are now reaching markets in Mumbai and Gujarat within hours instead of days, thanks to a record fruit-loading drive by Northern Railway’s Jammu Division. The division has transported nearly 260 tonnes of cherries and litchis this season, a move expected to significantly increase growers’ incomes by reducing transit time and dependence on middlemen.
This year, approximately 250 tonnes of cherries were loaded from the Jammu Tawi railway station for major metropolitan cities like Mumbai, Vadodara, and Surat. Meanwhile, around 10 tonnes of litchis were dispatched from Pathankot Cantt railway station to Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Surat. This marks a significant milestone for the Jammu Division.
This initiative by the Jammu Division is yielding immense benefits for growers and the region. Briefly, the advantages include producers receiving fair prices directly due to the reduced role of middlemen. Rail freight is more economical than road transport, thereby lowering costs and increasing profits for farmers.
With the speed of rail transport, perishable fruits reach the market in less time, minimizing losses. Perishable produce is now delivered in hours rather than days.
Demand for Jammu & Kashmir’s cherries and litchis has risen in Mumbai and Gujarat, leading to increased income for the growers.
Commenting on this achievement, Uchit Singhal, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Jammu Division, said, “Jammu Division stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the fruit growers. We have arranged for special parcel wagons and expedited loading and unloading facilities for perishable produce like cherries and litchis. Our goal is to ensure that every fruit from Jammu & Kashmir reaches every corner of the country quickly and cost-effectively. This initiative will not only boost the income of growers but also strengthen the ‘Vocal for Local’ campaign. Railway freight service is the most economical and time-efficient option for farmers. Transportation by rail costs 30–40% less than road transport and preserves the freshness of perishable fruits. This is why Jammu cherries now reach Vadodara and Surat just as fresh as they are in Jammu. Growers are directly benefiting from the savings in both time and cost.”
Jammu Division has assured growers of all possible support regarding railway freight facilities in the future as well.