The government announced the successful delivery of the first full rake of foodgrain to Anantnag on January 22. This shipment, consisting of 42 wagons carrying 2,768 metric tonnes of rice, highlights the robust rail connectivity to the region. Previously, only mini rakes with lesser capacity were transported by rail.
This achievement involved loading the full rake from Sangrur rail terminal in Punjab and delivering it to Anantnag within 24 hours. Despite challenges like adverse weather conditions, the handling of the rake was smooth, enhancing the foodgrain supply chain in the Valley.
By reducing reliance on heavy truck traffic on national highways, this shift to rail transportation is not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly. The successful transportation of apples, cement, fertilizers, and now foodgrain by rail is bolstering economic activity and supply chain stability in the region.
The transition from mini rakes to full-capacity railway wagons is expected to lower logistics and freight costs significantly. This move will ensure quicker and more reliable transportation of essential goods, maintain buffer stocks during adverse weather, and enhance foodgrain availability for local residents.
The government emphasized the transformative impact of the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, marking a significant step in enhancing connectivity in the region.
