DC Budgam reviews parcel rail services with fruit growers, encourages apple transportation
BUDGAM, SEPTEMBER 30 (PTK): Deputy Commissioner Budgam Athar Aamir Khan chaired an interaction meeting with fruit growers and Railway authorities to promote the use of parcel rail services for transporting apples from the Valley to fruit markets across the country.
The meeting focused on creating awareness among growers about the facilities, booking procedures, loading arrangements and fare charges available under the parcel train service.
Railway officials briefed the growers about the complete booking process and operational arrangements, while also explaining the facilities available at the railway station to ensure smooth transportation of apple consignments.
Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner highlighted the importance of cost-effective and efficient transportation for the horticulture sector, which remains an important part of the district’s rural economy. He encouraged growers to make greater use of rail services, particularly during the peak harvesting season.
Athar Aamir Khan said parcel rail services offer an economical mode of transporting apples to distant markets and can help reduce the transportation burden on growers while facilitating timely market access.
The growers were informed that Budgam Railway Station is among the accessible railheads for fruit growers of the district. Officials further stated that a single railway wagon can carry approximately 1,600 to 1,700 apple boxes, allowing large quantities of produce to be transported in a single consignment.
The Deputy Commissioner directed the concerned departments and Railway authorities to maintain close coordination with growers and provide necessary facilitation during booking and loading. He also called for sustained awareness campaigns so that more horticulturists can benefit from the facility.
The interaction also allowed fruit growers to raise queries regarding booking procedures, fares, loading arrangements and other operational aspects of the parcel service, which were addressed by the Railway officials.
The meeting was attended by the Area Manager, Railways, Budgam; Joint Director Planning, Budgam; Chief Horticulture Officer, Budgam; Area Marketing Officer, Budgam, besides fruit growers from different parts of the district.(PTK)
