Indian Railways has achieved a major milestone in strengthening all weather logistics to the Kashmir Valley with the arrival of the first full rake of foodgrain at Anantnag on 22 January 2026. A complete rake comprising 42 wagons carrying 2,768 metric tonnes of rice reached the Anantnag goods shed by rail, underscoring the reliability of round the year rail connectivity and its growing role in ensuring uninterrupted supply of essential commodities to the region.
The movement marks a significant departure from earlier operations, when only mini rakes of 21 wagons carrying about 1,384 metric tonnes were transported by rail. The full rake was loaded at Sangrur rail terminal in Punjab on 21 January and reached Anantnag within 24 hours, despite adverse winter weather conditions that had affected unloading activities a day earlier. The successful handling of the rake reflects improved operational preparedness and close coordination between Indian Railways and Food Corporation of India to optimise freight movement and reduce logistics costs.
This first of its kind movement is expected to significantly strengthen the foodgrain distribution network in the Kashmir Valley. Transitioning from mini rakes and road based transport to full capacity railway wagons will lower overall freight and logistics costs, improve transit time predictability and ensure reliable replenishment of buffer stocks, particularly during periods of snowfall and highway disruptions. Faster and dependable rail movement will help stabilise foodgrain availability for households across the Valley.
Reduced dependence on heavy truck traffic along national highways will also deliver environmental benefits and operational efficiencies. With fewer long haul trucks on mountain roads, the shift supports lower emissions, reduced congestion and improved safety, while enhancing resilience of the supply chain during harsh weather.
The successful foodgrain movement builds on earlier rail based transportation of apples, cement and fertiliser, reinforcing the expanding role of rail logistics in sustaining economic activity in the region. These developments highlight the transformative impact of the Udhampur Srinagar Baramulla Rail Link, among the most ambitious railway engineering projects undertaken in independent India.
As winter conditions persist in the Valley, the strengthened rail link is proving critical in maintaining uninterrupted trade and essential supplies, directly benefiting farmers, traders and consumers by ensuring dependable access to foodgrains and other necessities.
