BJP’s Ashok Koul welcomes parcel train for Kashmir apple growers

Srinagar, Sep 12: J&K BJP General Secretary (Organization), Ashok Koul today welcomed the announcement by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to start a daily time-tabled parcel train service from Budgam to Adarsh Nagar (Delhi), calling it a "lifeline" for apple growers and a timely intervention that will bring immense relief to the horticulture sector of the Kashmir Valley.

“This is a historic decision that reflects the Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to the welfare of every section of society, including the hardworking farmers and growers of Kashmir,” Ashok Koul said in a statement.

The parcel train service comes amid a major crisis caused by the prolonged closure of the Srinagar–Jammu National Highway (NH-44). This closure has severely impacted the transportation of apples, the economic backbone of the Valley. The move is expected to facilitate direct and reliable access to Azadpur Mandi, Asia’s largest fruit market, significantly reducing losses and delays.

Koul appreciated the bold approach of the Union Government, stating that the rail connectivity solution shows how infrastructure development under PM Modi’s leadership is being used to solve long-standing regional problems.

The introduction of this daily parcel train will not only save crores in losses but also restore the confidence of our growers and traders. This initiative reaffirms that the voice of Kashmir’s people is heard at the highest level,” he added.

Koul highlighted that the apple industry in Kashmir provides livelihood to over 3.5 million people and contributes nearly 8% to Jammu and Kashmir’s GDP. He expressed confidence that this initiative would stabilise prices, reduce wastage, and ensure timely market access all critical factors during the peak harvesting season.

Calling it a “game-changer for the horticulture sector,” BJP General Secretary (Org) Ashok Koul urged the farming community to fully utilise the service and assured that the BJP will continue to advocate for long-term infrastructure development in the Union Territory.

He also thanked the Indian Railways and the local administration for making swift logistical arrangements to ensure a smooth rollout of the service from Budgam Railway Station.