Rail link harvests hope for Kashmir fruit growers

Srinagar, Feb 23: The expansion of railway connectivity between Kashmir and the rest of the country has brought cheers to the Valley's fruit farmers and traders.

With stations across Kashmir getting linked with the Indian rail network, stakeholders associated with the over Rs 10,000 crore fruit industry view it as a milestone move that will give a big push to horticulture exports from Kashmir.

Chairman, Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers Union, Bashir Ahmad Basher said that the new rail links are set to provide smooth, cost-effective transportation solutions for perishable fruits, especially apples, to reach markets in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and other cities faster.

Fruit growers predict the improved connectivity by trains will help reduce transportation costs and transit time for Kashmiri apples and other produce besides curbing wastage, ultimately benefiting orchardists.

"With the harvesting season on the horizon, this new rail link comes as a timely relief for our fruit growers. The ability to transport perishable fruits like cherries in smaller quantities outside of Kashmir not only ensures freshness but also slashes transportation costs significantly. This marks a significant boon for our fruit growers," said Bashir.

President, Fruit Mandi, Sopore, Fayaz Ahmad said "The transportation challenges have long plagued our fruit growers, often resulting in substantial losses when the national highway is inaccessible for days on end. With the new rail link set to become fully operational, I am optimistic that it will provide a significant boost to our growers. This additional transportation facility will not only alleviate existing hurdles but also pave the way for enhanced efficiency in our fruit industry."

Prime Minister Modi inaugurated new rail links connecting the Valley to the rest of India on Tuesday, the rail network stretched to Sangaldan, Sumber and Khari in Ramban, allowing trains from Baramulla direct access to Jammu. Within months, Kashmir will be linked with the national railway grid, a monumental milestone. Already the new electrified route is seeing sleek, eco-friendly MEMU trains from Kapurthala's Rail Coach Factory delivering a smooth new riding experience. With Ramban's stations on board, Kashmir is now firmly hooked up to the Indian Railways network, putting the region on track for increased connectivity and economic benefits in the future.