Indian Army’s first exclusive freight train runs on USBRL

Jammu, Sep 15: Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) has witnessed a historic milestone with the successful run of the first exclusive freight train of the Indian Army, from Bari Brahmana to Anantnag on September 12 and 13.

The move marked a breakthrough in advanced winter stocking through an exemplary civil-military fusion, as the return rake of the freight transported Kashmiri apples to markets in the rest of India.

The maiden exclusive freight train carried 753 metric tonnes of advance winter stocking (AWS) loads for Indian Army units and formations in J&K, marking a decisive turning point in the Army’s Advance Winter Stocking (AWS) modus operandi.

“This strategic initiative underscores the Indian Army’s ongoing capability development efforts to ensure operational preparedness in challenging Himalayan terrain. In a unique demonstration of dual-use logistics and military-civil fusion, the return rake of the freight train will transport Kashmiri apples to markets in the rest of India,” said PRO Defence Jammu Lt Col Suneel Bartwal.

He stated that this step not only strengthened the army’s winter preparedness but also provided direct benefits to local communities.

“Kashmiri farmers, who in the past suffered heavy losses due to road blockages caused by landslides and floods, will now be able to transport their produce seamlessly, ensuring both economic relief and livelihood security,” Lt Col Bartwal said.

He asserted that the initiative reflected “the Army’s role in nation-building, extending beyond its core mission of defence to contribute tangibly to the socio-economic development of Kashmir.”

“By harnessing rail infrastructure for both military and civilian purposes, the Indian Army has taken a major stride in strengthening resilience, connectivity and prosperity in the region,” Lt Col Bartwal said.