KVFG hails Rly Min for ensuring smooth fruit transportation amid highway blockade
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By Irfan Yattoo
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06 Oct 2025
Officials say over 12,400 tons of apples transported through railways so far
Srinagar, Oct 06: The Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers Cum Dealers Union (KVFG) has expressed gratitude to Union Minister for Railways, Ashwini Vaishnaw, for the timely operation of special railway services that facilitated the transportation of fresh fruits from the Valley to major markets across the country during the recent blockade of the Srinagar–Jammu National Highway (NH-44).
In an official communication addressed to the Railway Minister, KVFG Chairman Bashir Ahmad Basheer, who also heads The New Kashmir Fruit Association said that the introduction of JPP-RCS services with VP and SLR coaches from Anantnag, Budgam, and Baramulla railway stations provided crucial relief to growers and traders at a time when thousands of fruit-laden trucks were stranded for more than 20 days due to highway disruptions.
“The timely intervention by the Railway Ministry saved the horticulture sector from severe losses,” the Union said, describing the decision as a lifeline for the valley’s fruit industry during an acute transportation crisis.
The KVFG, which represents all major fruit growers’ associations across Kashmir, noted that railway connectivity for fruit transport had proven to be a reliable and efficient alternative to road movement, especially during adverse weather or road blockages.
Expressing hope that the facility would continue, the Union urged the government to expand railway freight services to allow direct transportation of horticultural produce from Kashmir to various destinations across India.
“This Union conveys from the depth of our hearts appreciation to the Hon’ble Minister and all railway authorities for their timely and effective arrangements,” the letter read.
The KVFG said such logistical support is vital for safeguarding the livelihoods of thousands of families dependent on fruit cultivation and trade, which form the backbone of Kashmir’s rural economy.
Uchit Singhal, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Jammu Division, told Rising Kashmir that since the opening of the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla rail link, the Railways has facilitated the transport of over 12,400 tons of apples, 48,000 tons of cement, 1,341 tons of steel frames, and 716 tons of plastic goods from the valley.
"It marked a new chapter in the history of automobile logistics in Jammu and Kashmir," Singhal said, adding that other automobile companies are expected to join the initiative soon.
The officer added that rail transport is safer and more efficient, as vehicles are carried in enclosed compartments, protecting them from weather, theft, and road damage.
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