Srinagar: The first-ever food grain freight train of the Food Corporation of India (FCI) Sunday reached the Anantnag Goods Terminal, marking a major boost to food security and logistics in Kashmir, while as, Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha congratulated the Indian Railways for the initiative.
Railway authorities said that the train from Punjab carried around 1,384 tonnes of food grains in 21 wagons.
They said that 21 wagons have reached already and 42 will arrive soon.
“1,300 metric tonnes of rice arrived today. Remaining 42 wagons will carry 2,600 MT rice, which is equivalent to 110 trucks,” they said, adding, earlier the supply took much more time from Punjab, now it will save time and resources, which is beneficial for the country.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha congratulated the Indian Railways after first-ever foodgrain freight train reached Kashmir valley carrying approximately 1384 tonnes of rice.
The Lieutenant Governor said this is undoubtedly a very memorable occasion and realises our long-cherished dream of connecting the Kashmir region to the national freight network. He observed that the movement of freight trains will benefit people, enterprises and infrastructure projects without the risk of adverse weather conditions throughout the year and ease the pressure on the National Highway-44.
The Lieutenant Governor expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Minister of Railways, Ashwini Vaishnaw for making economic progress of J&K an integral part of Bharat’s rapid growth.
The arrival of the train is a step to ensure an uninterrupted and efficient supply of foodgrains to the Valley, particularly to remote and far-flung areas, an official spokesperson said.
Rail-based transportation will not only enhance the reliability of buffer stock movement but also reduce transportation costs, making the supply chain faster and more economical, he added.
The development will provide a boost to local markets, strengthen the regional agricultural economy, and create new opportunities in logistics and allied sectors, the spokesman said.
