Kashmir to Delhi Rapid Cargo Train! Indian Railways Launches First Cargo Train for Fruits & Handicrafts

Published On: August 20, 2025

The Indian Railway Board has given the green signal to the Joint Parcel Product–Rapid Cargo Service (JPP-RCS), a special train connecting Kashmir to Delhi. This dedicated cargo service is designed to help traders, especially fruit growers and handicraft sellers, showcase their products across India with speed and reliability.

Unlike road transport, which takes longer, this cargo train will cover the Budgam–Delhi route in just 23 hours, ensuring faster and safer delivery of perishable and high-value goods.

Daily Operations from Kashmir to Delhi

The train, equipped with eight parcel vans and an SLR (Seating cum Luggage Rake), will operate daily from Budgam Railway Station in Kashmir to Adarsh Nagar, Delhi.

During its first year, the service will run on a pilot basis, with the Jammu and Kashmir Police handling security at both ends.

According to Vivek Kumar, Divisional Railway Manager (Jammu Division), the JPP-RCS train is part of a broader initiative to promote freight transportation through railways. He described it as a virtual aggregation platform that strengthens collaboration between Indian Railways and private sector businesses.

To encourage participation, the registration fee for bookings has been reduced, making the service more accessible to small and medium traders. This ensures that even local businesses can benefit from faster transportation and wider market reach.

Uchit Singhal, Senior Commerce Divisional Manager, highlighted that the train will primarily benefit Kashmir’s fruit and handicraft industry. Products like apples, saffron, walnuts, carpets, and Pashmina shawls will now reach markets across India in record time.

With loading and unloading facilities at Bari Brahmana Station in Samba district, traders can easily manage logistics without additional delays.

Compared to road transport, the rail cargo service is not only quicker but also cost-effective. Businesses can now ship bulk consignments safely while cutting down on transportation costs.

The initiative aims to increase the railway’s share in the courier and logistics sector, offering customers an efficient, reliable, and economical option.

Apart from strengthening the local economy, the train service will also help promote Kashmir’s unique products across India and abroad. This move is expected to generate new employment opportunities and support long-term growth for the region’s business community.