First full foodgrain rake reaches Anantnag, strengthening all-weather rail connectivity to Kashmir Valley
Srinagar, Jan 24 (KINS): In a major boost to foodgrain supply and logistics in the Kashmir Valley, the first full rake of rice was successfully transported to Anantnag by rail on January 22, highlighting the reliability of Indian Railways’ all-weather connectivity to the region.
For the first time, a complete rake of 42 wagons carrying 2,768 metric tonnes of rice reached the Anantnag goods shed. The rake was loaded at Sangrur rail terminal in Punjab on January 21 and completed its journey within 24 hours. This achievement was made possible through sustained coordination with the Food Corporation of India (FCI) and marks a significant step towards reducing transportation costs.
Earlier, only mini rakes of 21 wagons carrying 1,384 metric tonnes of foodgrain were moved to the Valley by rail. The successful movement of a full rake, despite adverse weather conditions that had disrupted unloading operations a day earlier, has provided a strong push to the foodgrain supply chain in the region.
The shift from mini rakes and road transport to full-capacity railway wagons is expected to lower overall logistics and freight costs while ensuring faster and more dependable movement of essential commodities. It will help maintain adequate buffer stocks in the Valley, especially during harsh winter conditions, and improve foodgrain availability for local households.
Reduced dependence on heavy truck movement along national highways will also bring environmental benefits and improve overall efficiency. Following the successful rail movement of apples, cement, fertilisers and now foodgrains, rail-based logistics is playing a key role in supporting economic activity and supply chain stability in the region.
The development underlines the transformative impact of the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project. Even amid snowfall and challenging weather, enhanced rail connectivity is strengthening trade and logistics, directly benefiting farmers, traders and residents by ensuring uninterrupted access to essential goods.(KINS)
