New Delhi: Timely, when Kashmir’s apple harvest almost ready, the Railway Board has approved a dedicated parcel train service between Budgam and Delhi to boost horticulture and trade in the Kashmir Valley.

The Joint Parcel Product–Rapid Cargo Service (JPP-RCS), the first of its kind in the Jammu Railway Division, will operate daily with eight parcel vans and a Seating-cum-Luggage Rake (SLR). The service is expected to cut transit time to around 23 hours, significantly faster and cheaper than road transport.

Divisional Railway Manager Vivek Kumar said the initiative aims to promote freight movement by rail and provide an “economical, reliable option” for traders. Loading and unloading facilities will also be available at Bari Brahmana in Samba to assist businesses.

Senior Commercial Divisional Manager Uchit Singhal noted that the train will mainly carry apples, saffron, walnuts, handicrafts, pashmina shawls and carpets. “This will not only benefit fruit growers and small traders but also generate employment,” he said.

The service will run on a pilot basis this year with state police ensuring security. It follows the recent launch of a freight train at Anantnag goods shed, which has already received positive feedback from traders.

Indian Railways hopes the move will strengthen Kashmir’s link to the national freight network, reduce logistics costs, and expand the Railways’ share in the parcel and courier business.