The railway network in Jammu and Kashmir has taken a decisive step towards strengthening the region’s economy with the launch of a daily rapid cargo train linking Budgam in central Kashmir to Delhi’s Adarsh Nagar. The service, the first of its kind in the Union Territory, is expected to transform the movement of Kashmir’s indigenous products while creating new opportunities for sustainable trade.
The new cargo service is designed to transport some of the Valley’s most valued commodities — including apples, saffron, walnuts, dry fruits, pashmina shawls, carpets, and handicrafts — directly to national markets. Officials confirmed that the train will complete the journey in approximately 23 hours, offering a faster and more cost-effective alternative to road transport.
In its pilot phase, the train will operate with a seating-cum-luggage rake and eight dedicated parcel vans. Facilities for loading and unloading have been arranged at Bari Brahmana station in Jammu, making it convenient for small traders and cooperatives to participate in the service. Authorities highlighted that the registration fee for freight movement has also been reduced, enabling producers and exporters to save significantly on transportation costs.
Industry experts view this initiative as a breakthrough for Jammu and Kashmir’s agricultural and handicraft sectors. The new rail corridor is expected to help farmers and artisans secure better returns by reducing spoilage, cutting travel times, and expanding access to high-demand markets in Delhi and beyond. With improved logistics, traders may also be able to tap into international demand for Kashmiri products, especially those marketed under the region’s geographical indications. Beyond commerce, the cargo train reflects a shift towards more sustainable logistics solutions. Rail transport is widely acknowledged as being more energy-efficient and less polluting compared to heavy road freight. Experts suggest that by diverting cargo from trucks to trains, the initiative could lower carbon emissions, reduce road congestion, and contribute to India’s larger climate goals under its sustainable urban mobility framework.
Security measures have been outlined, with police teams ensuring smooth movement of goods across both ends of the corridor. While the service will initially run on a trial basis, its success is expected to lay the foundation for more specialised cargo trains from Kashmir to other metropolitan centres in the country. For traders and artisans in the Union Territory, this development signals more than just a new transport facility. It symbolises greater integration with national supply chains and a step towards building equitable access for local producers in competitive markets. By blending economic opportunity with sustainable logistics, the rail cargo initiative could help Jammu and Kashmir reassert its traditional products in the modern marketplace, while keeping its carbon footprint in check.
