Anantnag: In a boost to food security and logistics in Kashmir, the first-ever Food Corporation of India (FCI) food grain freight train reached the Anantnag Goods Terminal today, marking a new chapter in rail-based supplies to the Valley.
The train, dispatched from Ajitwal railway station in Punjab’s Firozpur division, is carrying about 1,384 tonnes of food grains loaded in 21 covered wagons. Officials said the move will help ensure uninterrupted supplies, particularly to far-flung and remote areas of Kashmir.
The Anantnag Goods Terminal, inaugurated on August 9 this year under the Jammu Division of Northern Railway, has so far handled cement rakes and other industrial and mixed goods. The arrival of the first food grain rake adds a critical component to its operations.
Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Jammu Division, Uchit Singhal said rail transportation of food grains would ensure faster, cheaper and more reliable supplies.
“This will help maintain uninterrupted availability of food grains, especially in remote areas of the Valley, while reducing transportation costs,” he said.
