Dedicated Goods Train arrives in Baramulla for apple transport, brings relief to fruit traders

Sopore, Sep 20: In a major boost for north Kashmir’s horticulture sector, a dedicated goods train comprising 14 coaches has arrived to facilitate the transportation of apples from Sopore, providing much-needed relief to fruit growers and traders.

Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Sopore, S.A. Raina, announced that the train has been exclusively reserved for the apple industry and will be stationed at Baramulla for loading consignments.

“This service will significantly ease the pressure on local transport and ensure that apples reach markets in other states without unnecessary delays,” said the ADC, adding that the service may continue in future depending on demand.

Fruit merchants, who have long struggled with transportation challenges due to highway blockades and shortage of trucks, welcomed the initiative. Traders described it as a timely intervention that will help protect perishable stock during the peak harvest season and minimise losses.

The initiative is expected to reduce transportation costs, expedite delivery to markets in Delhi, Punjab, and other states, and strengthen the confidence of growers and traders alike. With Sopore hosting Asia’s second-largest fruit mandi, the dedicated train service is being hailed as a landmark step that could serve as a model for future logistics solutions in Kashmir’s horticulture sector.

ADC Raina emphasised that the administration remains committed to supporting fruit traders by exploring innovative transport solutions to ensure the region’s apples reach markets efficiently and on time.