In a historic first, a dedicated freight train delivered winter supplies for the Indian Army to Anantnag, Kashmir, even as the Srinagar–Jammu National Highway remained blocked for nearly three weeks. On its return journey, the train transported apples from the Valley to Delhi, providing relief to distressed farmers whose produce had been rotting in stranded trucks along the closed highway.
The Indian Army said the initiative marks a “decisive turning point” in its advance winter stocking (AWS) operations. The train carried 753 metric tonnes of critical supplies for units and formations across Jammu & Kashmir. “Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) witnessed a historic milestone with the successful run of a freight train, the first exclusive freight train of the Indian Army, from BD Bari to Anantnag,” the Army stated.
Officials underscored that the freight service is part of ongoing efforts to enhance operational preparedness in the Himalayan terrain, while also contributing to the region’s economic resilience. “By harnessing rail infrastructure for both military and civilian purposes, the Indian Army has taken a major stride in strengthening resilience, connectivity, and prosperity in the region,” the statement added.
After unloading supplies at Anantnag, the train proceeded to Budgam, from where a consignment of Kashmiri apples was flagged off by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. The Army said the move would help prevent farmers’ losses caused by highway disruptions due to landslides and floods. “This step not only strengthens the Army’s winter preparedness but also provides direct benefits to local communities,” it said.
The dual-purpose freight train is being hailed as a milestone in the use of rail connectivity to support both national security and local livelihoods in the Valley.