Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Aug 9: In a major step toward integrating the Kashmir Valley with the national economy, the first-ever freight train has successfully arrived at the newly established Anantnag Goods Shed. This significant milestone was celebrated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who praised the move as a boost for "commerce and connectivity" in Jammu and Kashmir.

The train, operated by Northern Railway, transported 21 wagons of cement from Rupnagar in Punjab. The journey covered approximately 600 kilometers in less than 18 hours, showcasing the efficiency of the new rail link. According to Himanshu Upadhyay, Chief Public Relations Officer for Northern Railway, this event marks the operational debut of the Anantnag Goods Shed and signifies its readiness to support the region's logistical and economic expansion. The cement will be used for various infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, and housing.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted the economic benefits of the new service, stating on X that it will "significantly reduce transportation costs." This is expected to provide substantial relief to both residents and businesses. The Ministry of Railways believes this new freight link will transform the economic landscape of the Kashmir Valley, giving a strong push to its agricultural, handicraft, and floriculture sectors by enabling products to reach global markets more efficiently.

This landmark event is a key part of the recently commissioned Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project. With a total length of 272 kilometers, the USBRL project, which was inaugurated by PM Modi in June, connects key districts of Jammu and Kashmir. The project also included the launch of the Vande Bharat Express service, offering major relief for passenger travel.