The Business Development Unit (BDU) of Western Railway’s Mumbai Central Division has transitioned the transportation of chikoos from road to rail. This shift aims to optimize pricing for farmers and expedite delivery to distant markets.
According to an agency report, a special train operated from Bilimora to Adarsh Nagar in Delhi, facilitating fair pricing for produce. The initiative followed discussions between railway officials and cooperative societies in the Valsad and Navsari regions. Officials highlighted rail transport benefits, persuading the V.V.K.S. Khedut Mandali in Amalsad to transport approximately 35,000 boxes of chikoos by train.
The rail journey, completed in 24 hours, contrasts with the 35-hour road trip, preserving fruit freshness and ensuring arrival in Delhi markets before opening hours. This arrangement secured premium value for farmers.
After this pilot project, the BDU is considering similar collaborations with mango cooperative societies for the upcoming season. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Indian Railways transported over 150 perishable cargo cars under the Kisan Rail scheme, benefiting farmers nationwide.