In a significant boost to agri-logistics, Gujarat has dispatched its first consignment of chikoo (sapota) to Delhi via the Dedicated Freight Corridor, marking a new milestone in the use of rail infrastructure for perishable cargo.
The shipment, sourced from key chikoo-growing regions in Gujarat, was transported using temperature-controlled containers to ensure freshness and reduce transit losses. Officials said the move is aimed at providing farmers with faster and more reliable access to distant markets while minimizing spoilage.
The use of the Dedicated Freight Corridor significantly cuts transit time compared to conventional rail routes, enabling efficient long-distance movement of fruits and other perishables. It also helps decongest passenger rail lines, improving overall logistics efficiency.
Authorities noted that this initiative could open new avenues for transporting agricultural produce across India, strengthening farm-to-market connectivity and enhancing farmers’ income. Similar movements of other fruits and vegetables are expected to follow as the rail network expands its role in cold-chain logistics.