Jammu Railway’s Pioneering Move: First Parcel Van to Transport Cherries from Katra to Mumbai
Jammu, May 25, 2025: In a groundbreaking initiative to boost the transport of perishable produce from Jammu and Kashmir to markets across India, the Jammu railway division has secured its first Vice President (VP) indent for a full parcel van from Katra railway station to Bandra Terminus in Mumbai, scheduled for June 3, 2025. The announcement was made by Senior Divisional Commercial Manager (DCM), Northern Railway, Jammu, Uchit Singhal, on Saturday.
This maiden effort, developed after extensive consultations with the Horticulture Department and local fruit grower associations, aims to revolutionize the logistics of perishable goods like cherries, ensuring they reach distant markets with minimal damage or quality deterioration. The initiative is expected to ease the burden on road transport, which often leads to delays and spoilage, while offering a faster, more reliable alternative.
According to Singhal, the parcel van, attached to a goods train, will carry 24 tons of cargo and cover the distance from Katra to Mumbai in just 30 hours. “This is a win-win situation for both the railways and fruit growers, and it will significantly contribute to the economy of the Jammu and Kashmir region,” he said.
The move is being hailed as a game-changer for the region’s horticulture sector, which has long faced challenges in transporting delicate produce to major markets. By leveraging rail infrastructure, the initiative promises to enhance market access for farmers, reduce transportation costs, and ensure fresher produce for consumers.
Posts on X have echoed enthusiasm for the initiative, with users highlighting its potential to transform the agricultural supply chain in Jammu and Kashmir and boost farmer incomes.
If successful, this pilot could pave the way for regular rail-based transport of perishable goods, marking a significant step toward modernizing logistics and supporting the region’s economy.
