The Northern Railways on Saturday said more than 111 tonnes of cherry had been transported from the Jammu-Katra region to different parts of the country so far.
The Railways said, “More than 111 tonnes of cherry has been successfully transported to different parts of the country through SLR/VP-based rail transport from Jammu and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra.”
The Railways said with the objective of ensuring better prices for farmers and orchardists and reducing transportation costs, the Jammu Division was “providing special rail rakes”.
“For perishable products like cherry, the SLR and VP coaches are being used, which ensures safe delivery in less time. Booking, loading and cold chain facilities are being provided by the Railways at the Jammu and Katra railway stations, so that farmers face no inconvenience,” it said.
Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Uchit Singhal said, “Connecting Jammu & Kashmir’s cherry to the national market is a priority for the Jammu Division. Farmers have placed their trust in the Railways to transport 111 tonnes of cherry produce. SLR/VP-based transport is not only saving time but also increasing farmers’ income.”
“The Jammu Division will continue to provide special facilities and quick booking arrangements for horticulture produce in the future as well, so that the resolve of ‘Farm to Market’ can be realised,” he said.