In a landmark development for regional transport and economic integration, Indian Railways achieved a significant feat.
- A freight train laden with 21 BCN wagons of cement traveled from Rupnagar (Punjab) to the newly inaugurated Anantnag Goods Shed, completing the 600-km journey in under 18 hours—a testament to meticulous planning and execution. The New Indian Expresswww.ndtv.comWikipediaThe Indian Express@mathrubhumiThe Economic Times
- The Anantnag Goods Shed, now fully operational, handles all types of goods (except petroleum) and functions daily from 6 am to 10 pm, providing robust logistical infrastructure to the Valley. Wikipediawww.ndtv.com
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi heralded the event as a “great day for commerce and connectivity,” signaling enhanced progress and prosperity. Concurrently, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw emphasized that rail freight would reduce transportation costs and expand market access for Kashmir’s residents and producers. The Economic TimesThe Economic TimesBrighter KashmirThe New Indian Express
- Industry leaders and traders welcomed the development as a long-awaited breakthrough. For instance, the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry noted that horticulture exports would benefit from faster and more reliable logistics, especially during monsoon closures of the Jammu–Srinagar highway. Apple growers anticipate a more stable, cost-effective supply chain. The New Indian ExpressRising KashmirThe Economic Times
- The freight facility’s arrival builds on the completion of the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) in June 2025—an engineering marvel featuring structures like the world’s highest railway arch over the Chenab and India’s first cable-stayed Anji Khad bridge—now transitioning from passenger to freight operations. The Indian ExpressWikipedia+2Wikipedia+2
Why This Matters
| Key Highlights | Impact |
|---|---|
| Infrastructure Growth | Cement delivery to support infrastructure—roads, bridges, housing—begins |
| Cost & Time Efficiency | Faster rail freight reduces transport cost and time significantly |
| Winter Resilience | Provides a dependable alternative to roadways during unfavorable seasons |
| Economic Boost | Bolsters value chains in horticulture, handicrafts, and more |
| Rail Network Integration | Seamlessly connects Kashmir with the broader Indian freight network |
