(source : ANI) ( Photo Credit : ani)
New Apple Train Boosts Kashmir’s Fruit Farmers
In a big win for Jammu and Kashmir’s farmers, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha launched the Joint Parcel Product – Rapid Cargo (JPP-RCS) parcel train at Srinagar Railway Station on Monday. This special train connects Budgam in Kashmir to Delhi’s Adarsh Nagar, making it easier to ship fresh apples and other goods across the country.
Sinha thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for making this possible. "I’m grateful to the PM. Starting today, we’ll transport 23-24 tons of apples and perishable items every day from here. They’ll reach Delhi the very next day," he told reporters. He highlighted how this JPP-RCS service will drive economic growth in the region, especially for fruit growers who often face losses due to road closures from heavy rains and tough terrain.
"This is a huge step for J&K’s development," Sinha added. "Farmers can now sell their produce at better prices and reach wider markets without the usual hassles." The train promises a reliable alternative to highways, cutting down damage to fruits like apples, saffron, walnuts, and even Kashmiri handicrafts such as pashmina shawls and carpets.
Divisional Railway Manager Vivek Kumar called it a "historic moment" for Kashmir’s horticulture sector. "For the first time, our main product—apples—will zip to other parts of India quickly," he said. The train features eight coaches and helps extend the shelf life of fresh fruits by speeding up delivery. Bookings are simple—just register online and you’re set.
Dr. Manoj Singh from the Railway Board shared more exciting details. "This apple train runs daily and hits Delhi in under 24 hours as a scheduled service. We’ll keep it going as long as demand stays high," he explained. There’s even talk of expanding to cities like Mumbai and Bengaluru. "With fixed timings, Kashmir’s people will truly benefit," Singh added.
The Railway Board greenlit this JPP-RCS facility for Jammu Division on August 20 to grab a bigger slice of the courier market with affordable, reliable options. The first run was set for September 13 from Delhi to Budgam, with the return trip on September 15 from Budgam at 6:15 am. It covers the distance in about 23 hours—faster than road travel—helping traders get their goods, from juicy apples to exotic saffron, to every corner of India without breaking the bank.
This launch couldn’t come at a better time for Kashmir’s apple season, promising fresher produce and stronger livelihoods for local farmers.
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