In a significant advancement for rail logistics in the Kashmir region, Northern Railway made history on Wednesday by sending out its inaugural automobile freight train from the Gati Shakti Terminal (GCT) at Manesar, operated by Maruti Suzuki India Limited, to the Anantnag Goods Shed located in southern Kashmir.
This first train is transporting a total of 116 passenger vehicles, featuring popular models such as the Brezza, Dzire, WagonR, and S-Presso. A Railways spokesperson from the Jammu division confirmed, “Today marks the dispatch of the first automobile rake from the Maruti Suzuki Gati Shakti Terminal in Manesar to the Anantnag Goods Shed in the Kashmir valley.”
Traversing Scenic Landscapes and Strategic Routes
The automobile train commenced its journey from Manesar at 12:35 PM on Wednesday and is anticipated to complete the 850-kilometre route in approximately 45 hours, with an expected arrival time at the newly inaugurated Anantnag railway terminal set for 10:00 AM on October 3.
A highlight of this route is the train’s passage over the Chenab River, where it will cross the world’s highest railway arch bridge, showcasing a remarkable engineering achievement that underscores the strategic relevance of the region’s railway infrastructure.
Enhancing Regional Connectivity and Logistics Efficiency
Railway officials have stated that the rail connectivity established through the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project has greatly enhanced regional integration, improved logistics efficiency, and alleviated road congestion, facilitating smoother transportation of goods across the area.
Since the successful arrival of the first cement freight train from Rupnagar in Punjab to Anantnag on August 9, a series of freight trains have been operational, transporting essential supplies including the Army’s winter stock and local fruits.
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According to the Railways spokesperson, “These advancements not only improve supply chain efficiency but also guarantee the on-time delivery of goods to the Kashmir valley, which is crucial for the region’s economy.”
A Landmark Achievement for Kashmir’s Freight Network
The successful initiation of the automobile freight train service represents a pivotal development in linking the Kashmir region to the broader national freight network, providing a dependable and expedited alternative to road transport for both commercial goods and essential supplies. Officials express optimism that the increase in train services will stimulate trade and enhance economic activity throughout the region.
(With Contributions From PTI)
