Srinagar, September 23,2025: In a significant step to boost the horticulture economy of Jammu and Kashmir, the Indian Railways has introduced container-based wagons to transport apples from the Valley to major markets across India.
Officials said the new facility will ensure safe, timely, and cost-effective transportation of apples during the ongoing harvest season. The initiative is aimed at reducing transit losses and preserving the freshness of Kashmir’s apple consignments, which often face challenges during road transport on the Srinagar–Jammu National Highway due to traffic congestion and weather disruptions.
According to the Northern Railways, special refrigerated and container-based wagons have been arranged from Sopore, Anantnag, and Pulwama fruit mandis, enabling growers and traders to directly send their produce to national markets like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Ahmedabad.
The move has been welcomed by fruit growers and traders, who said that the railway initiative would not only cut transportation costs but also help maintain the quality of apples, giving them a competitive edge in the national fruit markets.
Officials from the Horticulture Department added that discussions are also underway to expand the service for other perishable items such as pears, plums, and cherries in the coming seasons.
Kashmir’s apple industry, considered the backbone of the Valley’s rural economy, contributes significantly to employment and livelihood generation, accounting for nearly 70% of India’s apple production.
Authorities assured that regular coordination between Railways, Horticulture, and local mandi associations will be maintained to streamline the freight process and maximise the benefit for farmers.
