Farmers Hail Apple Express as Lifeline: 1.37 Lakh MT Fruit Shipped in 10 Days
Rail cargo boosts Kashmir’s apple economy, eases highway woes
By: Our Special Correspondent
Srinagar: Kashmir’s apple harvest is finding a faster and safer route to markets this season, thanks to the dedicated parcel train service that has emerged as a game-changer for the Valley’s horticulture sector.
Between September 11 and 21, a total of 19 apple parcel trains left from Budgam, Anantnag, and Baramulla, ferrying fresh produce to Delhi and Jammu. Anantnag station led the dispatches with a remarkable volume across ten trains, including a record single-day load, while Budgam and Baramulla followed with consistent consignments, including apples, pears, and walnuts.
In just two weeks, thousands of tonnes of apples have reached markets, with growers booking advance consignments well into late September. Farmers and traders alike see the rail service as a long-overdue solution to losses caused by road delays, especially along the frequently disrupted Srinagar-Jammu highway.
“This is a historic step for us. Our apples are reaching markets faster and in better condition than ever before,” said Bashir Ahmad Bashir, president of the Kashmir Fruit Growers cum Dealers Union. “The government and railway authorities have coordinated well to address loading, unloading, and freight issues, keeping growers’ concerns at the centre.”
Orchardists across South and North Kashmir welcomed the initiative. “Earlier we faced heavy losses due to highway delays. Now our produce reaches mandis on time, which means better prices,” said Ghulam Nabi, a grower from Shopian. Mohammad Ashraf of Pulwama added, “The service is not only faster but also economical. If continued, it will transform the way we market our apples.”
Officials said the rail cargo system is proving a lifeline for the Valley’s horticulture sector, ensuring timely supplies and economic security amid recurring road disruptions.
Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg told reporters that over the past ten days, more than 1.37 lakh metric tons of fresh fruit have been transported from the Valley through a combination of parcel trains, the National Highway, and the Mughal Road. He added that truck movement has nearly doubled, while rail dispatches continue to provide a dependable alternative for growers.
“Essential supplies such as fuel, LPG, and food stocks are being replenished regularly. People should avoid panic buying,” Garg assured.
With the harvest season in full swing, the “Apple Express” has become a symbol of resilience and efficiency, connecting Kashmir’s orchards with markets beyond the Valley and giving growers renewed confidence in the fruit economy.
