New Delhi: The Central government on Thursday announced the launch of a dedicated parcel train service to transport apples from the Kashmir Valley to Delhi, with the assurance that additional trains will be introduced if growers seek more capacity.
The Ministry of Railways said two parcel vans, each with a capacity of 23 metric tonnes, had been provided for apple consignments. “Indian Railways is ready to provide additional parcel vans if demand is received,” it stated.
A daily time-tabled parcel train will operate between Badgam in Kashmir and Adarsh Nagar in New Delhi from September 13. The train, comprising eight parcel vans, will depart Badgam at 6.15 a.m. and arrive in Delhi at 5 a.m. the next day, ensuring fresh apples reach the markets in time for early morning sales. Traders and growers will also be able to book individual vans online, while additional parcel vans can be attached at intermediate stations.
The ministry said senior railway officials remain in close coordination with Jammu and Kashmir authorities, the horticulture department, fruit growers’ associations, and traders to streamline the process.
The initiative follows the successful arrival of the first freight train carrying cement from Punjab to Anantnag on August 9, a step that marked Kashmir’s deeper integration into the national freight network. Officials said the service will speed up infrastructure projects in the region and reduce costs for residents.
The freight corridor operates on the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in June this year.
Earlier in the day, Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted the move on X, writing: “Empowering Kashmir’s apple growers. With the Jammu-Srinagar line operational, the Kashmir valley has better connectivity. Railways is introducing a daily time-tabled parcel train from Badgam in Kashmir Valley to Adarsh Nagar station in Delhi starting 13th September 2025. Loading of 2 parcel vans carrying apples from Badgam to Delhi is beginning today.”