New Delhi: The Railway Board has approved a daily cargo train service between Delhi and Budgam in the Kashmir Valley, aimed at benefiting both the local population and the business community.
According to a circular dated August 20, the Railway Board reviewed a proposal from the Northern Railway Zone, under which the Jammu Division falls, and sanctioned a Joint Parcel Product-Rapid Cargo (JPP-RCS) train on the Budgam–Adarsh Nagar (Delhi)–Budgam route.
The circular stated, “The train service will operate with eight parcel vans (VPs) and one seating-cum-luggage rake (SLR), with an intermediate loading and unloading facility at Baribrahman (BBMN).” The service will initially run on a one-year pilot basis from the date of commencement.
The Railway Board emphasized that Northern Railway will coordinate with the state police to ensure the security of both the train and its parcels. “Security measures will be implemented at both the originating and terminating stations, and parcels will be scanned in consultation with the police,” the circular added.
Half-yearly reviews will assess the pilot’s effectiveness, and relevant staff will be instructed accordingly, with wide publicity planned for stakeholders, especially in the Jammu Division.
Officials from the Jammu Division said the initiative is intended to boost Railways’ share in the courier business while providing a reliable and cost-effective transport option for customers.
“This service primarily benefits the business community, aiming to showcase unique products from Jammu and Kashmir, such as dry fruits and handicrafts, and promote their marketing within India and abroad,” said Uchit Singhal, Senior Commercial Manager of the Jammu Division.
He added, “The train will reach Adarsh Nagar (Delhi) in about 23 hours—faster than road transport from Budgam. Products like apples, saffron, walnuts, pashmina shawls, carpets, and Kashmiri handicrafts can now be transported more quickly than ever.”
