First freight train chugs into Anantnag, cements Valley connectivity

In a major boost to regional connectivity, a freight train arrived at the Anantnag goods shed in South Kashmir, marking a significant milestone in integrating the Valley with the national freight network.

The train, carrying cement from Rupnagar in Punjab, reached Anantnag on Saturday, the Northern Railway said. Officials hailed the development as a transformative step for logistics and infrastructure in the region.

Northern Railway’s Chief Public Relations Officer Himanshu Shekhar Upadhyay said the arrival of the freight train is expected to accelerate infrastructure projects and enhance the standard of living in Kashmir.

The inaugural freight train comprised 21 BCN wagons loaded with cement. “The journey, spanning approximately 600 km, was completed in under 18 hours,” Upadhyay said.

The cement will be used in critical infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges and public utilities, across the region.

According to officials, the logistics of the landmark journey were executed with precision.

“An indent was placed with the Northern Railway at 11.14 pm on August 7. Rake placement occurred at 9.40 am on August 8, and the loading was completed by 6.10 pm the same day. The train departed from the Gujarat Ambuja Cement Limited facility in Rupnagar at 6.55 pm,” the spokesperson said.

The freight was hauled by an electric WAG-9 locomotive, reflecting the advanced capabilities of the railway network.

Upadhyay noted that the arrival of the freight train was more than a logistical milestone — it was a powerful symbol of integration and development, paving the way for a more connected and prosperous Kashmir valley.

This development follows the inauguration of the Vande Bharat Express from Katra to Srinagar in June by Prime Minister Narendra Modi — a move widely welcomed by travellers in the region.

Reacting to the development, PM Modi posted on X, “Great day for commerce and connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir! It will enhance both progress and prosperity.”

Also, Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw posted on X, “First freight train to the Kashmir valley: Today the first freight train reached the newly commissioned Anantnag goods shed in the Kashmir valley from Punjab, marking a significant milestone in connecting the Kashmir region with the national freight network.”

He added, “Transportation by the railway network will reduce costs for our citizens living in the Valley.”