Anantnag, Oct 3: In a landmark development for Jammu and Kashmir’s transport and logistics sector, the first-ever rake carrying automobiles was successfully unloaded today at the newly operational Anantnag Goods Shed.
The train, dispatched from Maruti Suzuki India Limited’s Gati Shakti Terminal in Manesar, Haryana, arrived in the early hours of Friday, completing a journey of over 850 kilometers in approximately 45 hours.
Carrying 116 newly manufactured vehicles, the rake marks the beginning of direct rail-based automobile transport into the Kashmir Valley, a move expected to revolutionize freight operations in the region.
Officials from Northern Railways confirmed the successful unloading operation, describing it as a “significant leap forward” in enhancing the Valley’s connectivity and logistics efficiency.
“This represents a new era of streamlined, cost-effective automobile transport for the region,” a senior railway official said, underlining the operational and economic benefits.
Until now, vehicles had to be transported by road from railway terminals in Jammu or Punjab, often resulting in longer transit times and higher logistics costs. The direct rail link to Anantnag is expected to reduce both, benefiting manufacturers, dealers, and consumers alike.
Local stakeholders, including automobile dealers and transport companies, welcomed the initiative. Imtiyaz Ahmad, a vehicle distributor, said, “This will not only bring down transportation costs but also ensure faster delivery to customers.” (KNS)
