Initiative to cut costs, strengthen connectivity, and benefit J&K economy
FIRDOUS AHMAD
SRINAGAR, Sep 15: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday flagged off the Joint Parcel Product–Rapid Cargo Service (JPP-RCS) train from Budgam Railway Station, introducing a dedicated facility for the faster transportation of goods from Jammu and Kashmir to the national capital.
The service, which marks a significant step in boosting trade and economic activity, will primarily cater to the movement of apples and other perishable commodities that form the backbone of Kashmir’s horticulture sector. According to officials, each parcel train will have the capacity to carry around 23 to 24 tonnes of cargo, ensuring that farmers and traders can directly ship their produce to New Delhi with reduced transit delays.
Addressing media persons after inaugurating the service, LG Sinha said the new train facility was a long-pending demand of growers and traders, and its commencement would provide them with a cost-effective and reliable option for transporting goods.
“I am thankful to the Hon’ble Prime Minister and the Indian Railways for making this possible. With the launch of this parcel train, apples and other perishable goods can be transported directly to Delhi in bulk. This will make a big contribution to our horticulture sector and local economy,” he said.
Highlighting the broader impact of the initiative, the Lieutenant Governor noted that improved logistics and connectivity are crucial for unlocking the economic potential of Jammu and Kashmir. “The service will not only bring down transportation costs but will also ensure better market access for our products. It will strengthen connectivity between J&K and the rest of the country and help boost the overall economy of the Union Territory,” LG Sinha remarked.
Officials accompanying the LG added that the initiative is expected to particularly benefit apple growers during the peak harvest season, while also opening opportunities for the export of other agricultural and handicraft products.
The launch of the JPP-RCS parcel train is being seen as a strategic step towards integrating Jammu and Kashmir’s economy more closely with national supply chains and providing long-term support to the region’s farmers, artisans, and traders.
