BUDGAM: Deputy Commissioner Budgam Athar Aamir Khan on Wednesday reviewed the operation of parcel train services from Budgam Railway Station for transporting apples to markets across the country.
The coordination meeting focused on arrangements required to facilitate the movement of locally produced apples by rail, particularly during the peak harvesting season.
Khan directed the Horticulture Department and railway authorities to coordinate on operational requirements and create awareness among fruit growers and traders about railway parcel rates and the process for using the service.
The meeting also discussed logistical issues at Budgam Railway Station, including improvements in loading facilities and the establishment of cold-chain connectivity to support the movement and handling of fruit consignments.
The Deputy Commissioner stressed the need for an efficient supply chain to enable growers to transport their produce to markets outside Jammu and Kashmir in a timely and cost-effective manner while minimising transit-related damage.
Officials from the Railways and Horticulture Department, including the Chief Area Manager of Railways, Budgam, Chief Horticulture Officer Budgam, Horticulture Development Officers from across the district and Assistant Grading and Marketing Officers of Chadoora and Beerwah, attended the meeting.