First FCI grain-laden goods train from Punjab arrives at Anantnag in Kashmir

The first-ever Food Corporation of India (FCI) food grain freight train, consisting of 21 wagons, successfully arrived at the Anantnag (Kashmir) Goods Terminal from Ajitwal Goods Shed in the Firozpur Division in Punjab on Sunday.

This marks a historic day for the people of the Kashmir Valley, as the Railways and the Food Corporation of India have jointly initiated this food grain freight train service to Kashmir. This is a significant step towards strengthening the food supply chain and promoting economic development in the future, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Uchit Singhal said.

Advertisement

The grain-laden freight train reached Kashmir from Punjab without any hindrance and in a much shorter time compared to road transport.

Similarly, in the future, grains and other food items will reach Kashmir directly by rail from various parts of the country. This will directly benefit local traders and the general public.

Commenting on the FCI’s initiative and the timely and safe arrival of the food grain freight train in Anantnag, Singhal said, “This is a moment of pride for the Railways. This freight train will act as an economic bridge between Punjab and Kashmir. In the coming times, the operation of FCI food grain freight trains by the Railways will play a major role in providing infrastructural support to the economy.”

Highlighting the advantages, he further added that it takes less time for the movement of goods and food grains compared to road transport, and this initiative will also reduce traffic congestion on the busy National Highway 44. Rail transport facilitates better and more efficient supply chain management of food grains, leading to improved planning and distribution.