Northern Railway Launches Regular Delhi–Kashmir Parcel Train Service Starting April 17

JAMMU, Apr 15: In a significant move to enhance trade logistics in the Union Territory, the Jammu Division of Northern Railway has announced the launch of a regular Delhi–Kashmir parcel train service between Adarsh Nagar in New Delhi and Budgam in central Kashmir. The Joint Parcel Product Rapid Cargo Service (JPP-RCS) train will commence operations from April 17, offering a much needed boost to traders, especially those dealing in fruits and handicrafts.
According to an official statement, the service will initially operate on a trial basis until May 31. Based on the response and occupancy levels, authorities may consider converting it into a permanent feature of the region’s logistics network.
The train, numbered 00462, will depart from Budgam at 6:15 am and is scheduled to reach Adarsh Nagar in Delhi by 5:00 am the following day. On its route, it will halt at Bari Brahmana and Ambala Cantonment stations to facilitate smooth loading and unloading of goods. Notably, the timing at Bari Brahmana has been adjusted to better suit the needs of local traders and businesses.
For the return journey, Train 00461 will leave Adarsh Nagar at 5:00 am and arrive in Budgam at 10:45 am the next day, ensuring a consistent and reliable transportation cycle.
Designed specifically for cargo movement, the train will comprise eight parcel vans along with a seating cum luggage coach. The service is expected to significantly reduce transit time compared to road transport, covering the distance in approximately 23 to 24 hours. This efficiency is particularly beneficial for perishable commodities such as apples and cherries, which require quick delivery to maintain freshness and market value.
Railway officials highlighted that the initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen Jammu and Kashmir’s economic framework by providing faster access to national markets. Products such as saffron, walnuts, pashmina shawls, and traditional handicrafts will now have a more reliable and efficient transport channel.
Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Uchit Singhal stated that the decision to operationalize the service was driven by consistent demand from traders and farmers across the Valley. He emphasized that the railways aim to provide a transport solution that is not only swift but also safe and cost-effective.
The introduction of this cargo service marks a strategic step toward improving supply chain efficiency and supporting the livelihoods of thousands dependent on horticulture and handicraft sectors in the region.