Kashmir enters new logistics era as first-ever automobile consignment arrives by rail

Srinagar, Oct 3: In a historic milestone for Jammu and Kashmir’s transport and logistics sector, the Valley today received its first-ever automobile consignment by rail, marking a transformative step in strengthening freight connectivity and reshaping the region’s supply chain landscape.

Officials confirmed that a dedicated freight rake carrying over 100 vehicles arrived early this morning at the newly operationalized Goods Shed in Anantnag, South Kashmir. The consignment, dispatched from Maruti Suzuki India Limited’s Gati Shakti Terminal in Manesar, Haryana, covered a distance of more than 850 kilometres in around 45 hours, making this the first instance of automobiles being directly delivered to the Valley by train.

Railway authorities hailed the successful operation as a “major leap forward” for freight logistics in Kashmir, highlighting how this new connectivity will streamline the automobile supply chain, cut transit times, and significantly lower transportation costs. “This development ushers Kashmir into a new era of cost-effective, reliable, and efficient automobile logistics,” a Northern Railway official said, calling it a turning point in the region’s freight movement capabilities.

Until now, vehicles bound for Kashmir were transported by road from terminals in Jammu or Punjab,  a lengthy and expensive process often delayed by adverse weather conditions, road closures, and traffic bottlenecks. With the new railway-based system now operational, the logistics chain is expected to become faster, smoother, and far more economical.

Local automobile dealers and industry stakeholders have hailed the milestone as nothing short of revolutionary. Jamkash Vehicleades spokesman described it as a “game-changer for the automobile sector in Kashmir.” Speaking to reporters, he noted, “It is a historic day for us. Earlier, we faced constant disruptions due to poor road connectivity and unpredictable weather. With rail transport now available, waiting times will reduce drastically, and customers will receive their vehicles much sooner.”

Industry experts believe that this breakthrough will not only benefit automobile dealers and consumers but also pave the way for increased industrial activity and investment in the region, as improved freight infrastructure is a critical enabler of economic development.