SRINAGAR, Dec 21: In a historic milestone for Kashmir’s logistics and food security infrastructure, the first-ever food grain freight train operated by the Food Corporation of India (FCI) rolled into the Anantnag Goods Terminal on Sunday, revolutionizing supply chains in the Valley and slashing transportation timelines from Punjab.
FCI Kashmir Depot Manager K L Mina confirmed that the landmark consignment delivered approximately 1,384 metric tonnes of essential food grains, loaded across 21 wagons, marking the inaugural rail-based bulk delivery to the region. “This train from Punjab carried around 1,384 tonnes in 21 wagons today,” Mina stated, adding that an additional 42 wagons are en route with another 2,600 metric tonnes of rice—equivalent to the capacity of 110 trucks—set to arrive shortly.
The development promises transformative efficiency gains for FCI’s operations in Jammu & Kashmir. Previously, transporting similar volumes relied heavily on road convoys, which were not only time-consuming but also resource-intensive amid challenging terrain and weather conditions. “Earlier supplies from Punjab took much more time; now it will save significant time and resources, which is highly beneficial for the country,” Mina emphasized, highlighting the rail corridor’s potential to streamline distribution during peak demand periods like winter stockpiling.
This breakthrough arrives at a critical juncture as Kashmir braces for intensified Western Disturbances and the onset of Chillai-Kalan, underscoring the strategic importance of reliable supply lines. The Anantnag terminal’s activation not only bolsters food security for millions but also signals accelerated infrastructure integration post the 2024 commissioning of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), paving the way for regular freight services that could extend to other essentials in the future.
