Asif Malik
JAMMU, JAN 24 (KNS) ; In a significant boost to winter logistics, the first-ever full 42-wagon foodgrain train reached South Kashmir's Anantnag railway station on Saturday, ensuring uninterrupted supply of essentials despite adverse weather conditions, officials said.
A senior railways official told news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) the 42 BCN wagon rake, carrying around 2,768 tonnes of rice, arrived at Anantnag Goods Terminal from Sangrur in Punjab's Ambala division in a record 24 hours.
The delivery was coordinated with the Food Corporation of India (FCI), the official said.
Despite recent snowfall and rain hampering unloading operations, railway staff completed the task smoothly under the guidance of senior divisional commercial manager Uchit Singhal, the official said.
Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
"This milestone enhances the logistics capacity of the Kashmir Valley and ensures uninterrupted supply of essential commodities for local traders and the general public," Singhal told news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS).
He said the Northern Railway is committed to promoting food security and economic development in Jammu and Kashmir, especially during winter when road routes are often closed.
The move will also ease pressure on the Srinagar-Jammu national highway, the only surface link connecting Kashmir with the rest of the country, the official said.
Earlier, a 21-wagon foodgrain train was successfully handled for the first time at the Anantnag terminal. (KNS)