Badgam-Delhi Train Boosts Apple Growers
Kashmir Apples to Reach Delhi by Daily Train
New Delhi: Indian Railways has initiated the loading of fresh apples from Kashmir on two Vehicle Parcel trains, each with eight wagons, to transport the produce to Delhi’s markets. It stated the move offers significant relief to apple growers in the valley. Each train, capable of carrying 23 metric tonnes of apples, began loading today, with the first consignments departing from Badgam in Kashmir to Adarsh Nagar in Delhi.
In response to the needs of Kashmir’s fruit growers, Indian Railways announced that a daily time-tabled parcel train service will commence on September 13, 2025, operating between Badgam Railway Station and Adarsh Nagar Railway Station. The train will depart Badgam at 6:15 AM and arrive at Adarsh Nagar by 5:00 AM the following day, ensuring early morning delivery to Delhi’s markets.
“This 8 Vehicle Parcel train will originate from Badgam Railway Station at 6:15 AM and reach Adarsh Nagar Railway Station at 5:00 AM the next day, which is a very suitable time for apples to arrive at the Delhi market early in the morning,” a railway official stated. The service, part of the Joint Parcel Product-Rapid Cargo Service, allows individual traders and growers to book a Vehicle Parcel online through the portal www.fois.indianrail.gov.in.
To accommodate growing demand, Indian Railways has provisions to attach additional Vehicle Parcels at intermediate stations and is prepared to deploy more trains if required. “Indian Railways is ready to provide additional Vehicle Parcel if demand is received,” a spokesperson confirmed. The Principal Chief Commercial Manager of Northern Railway and the Divisional Railway Manager of Jammu Division are coordinating with state authorities, the horticulture department, fruit growers’ associations, and traders to ensure smooth operations.
The initiative builds on the recent success of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in June 2025. On 9 August, the first freight train, carrying 21 wagons of cement, arrived at Anantnag Goods Shed from Punjab, marking a milestone in connecting Kashmir to the national freight network. This rail link has also facilitated the operation of two Vande Bharat trains between Katra and Srinagar, both running at over 100% occupancy, providing accessible and comfortable travel options for passengers.
The new parcel train service is expected to alleviate challenges faced by apple growers, particularly amid disruptions caused by the closure of the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway. By offering a reliable and faster alternative to road transport, the service aims to reduce losses and support the region’s horticulture sector, a key driver of Kashmir’s economy.
– global bihari bureau
