Fruit growers seek dedicated rail corridor, push for AC cargo trains

Srinagar, Apr 30: Kashmir’s fruit growers have urged the Northern Railway to fast-track dedicated, temperature-controlled cargo solutions and expand rail logistics infrastructure to address long-standing challenges in transporting perishable produce to markets across India.

The demand was raised during a joint inspection-cum-interaction between railway officials and representatives of the horticulture trade, who travelled from Srinagar to Baramulla via key stations including Budgam, Pattan, and Sopore.

Led by Bashir Ahmed Basheer of the New Kashmir Fruit Association (NKFA), the growers’ delegation highlighted that inadequate cold-chain logistics and limited rail cargo facilities continue to impact returns for apple, cherry, and other fruit producers.

Growers emphasised the urgent need for refrigerated (AC) cargo trains to ensure quality preservation during long-distance transportation, particularly for highly perishable fruits like cherries. They also pushed for expansion of loading points, identifying Sopore and Baramulla for bulk loading facilities, while proposing phased development of infrastructure at Anantnag, Awantipora, and Pampore.

A key concern raised by the growers was the difficulty faced during last year’s peak season, including delays caused by cumbersome security checks, restricted access to stations, and inefficient handling systems. They called for modern scanning systems and streamlined procedures to reduce turnaround time and prevent spoilage.

The delegation also pressed for expanding the existing cherry parcel service operated from Katra to Mumbai from five days to a daily schedule, stating that uninterrupted movement is critical during the short cherry harvesting window.

In addition, growers highlighted the need for better unloading and handling facilities at major destination terminals such as Bandra Terminus, Mumbai Central, and Adarsh Nagar in Delhi to ensure quicker market access and minimise losses.

Railway officials assured the delegation that the proposals—including AC cargo services, improved logistics infrastructure, and operational streamlining—would be examined. Growers expressed cautious optimism, noting that timely implementation could significantly enhance market reach, reduce post-harvest losses, and improve profitability for Kashmir’s horticulture sector.

The visiting team also inspected orchards in Tangmarg to align logistics planning with on-ground production realities, reinforcing the growers’ call for a more responsive and efficient rail-based supply chain.