Jammu, June 18, 2026: In a significant boost for fruit growers in Jammu & Kashmir, Northern Railway's Jammu Division has achieved a record milestone in the transportation of perishable fruits during the 2026 harvest season, facilitating the dispatch of approximately 250 tonnes of cherries and 10 tonnes of litchis to major markets across the country.
According to railway officials, around 250 tonnes of cherries were loaded from Jammu Tawi Railway Station and transported to key metropolitan markets including Mumbai, Vadodara and Surat. Additionally, nearly 10 tonnes of litchis were dispatched from Pathankot Cantt Railway Station to Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Surat.
The initiative is aimed at providing fruit growers with faster, more economical, and reliable access to distant markets. Railway authorities stated that the use of dedicated parcel wagons and streamlined loading and unloading arrangements has helped ensure the timely movement of highly perishable produce.
Agriculture and trade stakeholders note that improved rail connectivity can reduce dependence on intermediaries, potentially enabling growers to secure better market prices. Rail transportation is also considered a cost-effective alternative to road transport, helping lower logistics expenses and improve returns for producers.
The faster transit time has emerged as another key advantage. By reducing travel duration, fruits can reach consumers while retaining freshness, thereby minimizing post-harvest losses and spoilage. Industry observers believe that improved access to markets in Maharashtra and Gujarat has contributed to growing demand for cherries and litchis originating from Jammu & Kashmir.
Commenting on the achievement, Uchit Singhal, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Jammu Division, said that the division remains committed to supporting fruit growers through efficient freight services.
"We have arranged special parcel wagons and expedited handling facilities for perishable commodities such as cherries and litchis. Our objective is to ensure that the produce of Jammu & Kashmir reaches markets across the country in a timely and cost-effective manner. This initiative supports growers by reducing transportation costs and improving market access," he said.
He further noted that rail transport can be significantly more economical than road transport while helping preserve the freshness of fruits during transit.
Railway officials have assured growers that freight-related support and infrastructure facilitation will continue in the coming seasons to strengthen the region's horticulture supply chain and expand access to national markets.
The achievement highlights the growing role of rail logistics in supporting agricultural commerce and enhancing market opportunities for fruit growers in Jammu & Kashmir.This version is written in a professional newspaper style suitable for publication in a national or regional daily, with balanced reporting, attribution of claims, and adherence to journalistic ethics.
