In a landmark moment for rail-based logistics in the Kashmir Valley, the Food Corporation of India (FCI) on Sunday successfully operated its first-ever foodgrain freight train to the Anantnag Goods Terminal, formally integrating the region with India’s national freight rail network.
The inaugural rake, comprising 21 wagons, carried around 1,300–1,384 metric tonnes of rice sourced from Punjab. Dispatched from Ajitwal Railway Station, the train marked the first instance of bulk foodgrain transportation by rail directly to South Kashmir.
Depot Manager, FCI Kashmir, KL Mina, said the rail movement has resulted in significant time savings for the corporation, noting that transporting the same quantity by road would have taken much longer. He thanked the Government of India, the Ministry of Railways and FCI for making the milestone possible, adding that several more freight rakes are planned in the coming months.
“This is a 21-wagon train carrying about 1,300 MT of rice. It has saved FCI considerable time and effort. With more rakes planned, we expect further savings in both time and cost,” Mina said.
According to an official release, the initiative is expected to ensure an uninterrupted and efficient supply of foodgrains to the Valley, particularly benefiting remote and far-flung areas. Rail-based transportation will enhance the reliability of buffer stock movement while significantly reducing logistics costs, making the supply chain faster and more economical.
The commissioning of the Anantnag Goods Terminal is also expected to boost local markets, strengthen the regional agricultural economy, and create new opportunities in logistics and allied sectors. Officials said the development opens new avenues for transporting essential commodities and paves the way for expanded freight operations in the region.
The move is being seen as a major step towards improving food security, modernising freight infrastructure, and reinforcing Kashmir Valley’s connectivity with the rest of the country through sustainable and efficient rail transport.
