The Railway Board has approved the launch of a daily cargo train between Delhi and Budgam in the Kashmir valley to benefit traders, businesses, and the local population.

According to a circular dated 20 August, the Board examined the proposal of the Northern Railway Zone and sanctioned a Joint Parcel Product–Rapid Cargo (JPP–RCS) service on the Budgam–Adarsh Nagar (Delhi)–Budgam route.

The train will operate with eight parcel vans (VPs) and one seating-cum-luggage rake (SLR), with an intermediate loading and unloading facility at Baribrahman (BBMN). The service will run on a pilot basis for one year from the date of commencement.

Security will be ensured at both ends of the route, with parcels scanned in consultation with state police. The Board has also directed half-yearly reviews of the pilot to assess its effectiveness, along with awareness campaigns among stakeholders, particularly in the Jammu Division.

Officials said the initiative is aimed at boosting the Railways’ share in the courier and logistics business, while offering an efficient, reliable, and cost-effective option for customers.

Uchit Singhal, Senior Commercial Manager, Jammu Division, said the service will highlight Jammu and Kashmir’s unique products, including apples, saffron, walnuts, pashmina shawls, carpets, and handicrafts, while facilitating their marketing across India and abroad.