Srinagar, Aug 18: Kashmir’s apple growers are set to get a major transportation boost, with the first dedicated “Apple Train” expected to begin operations from Anantnag on September 1, providing a faster route for moving the Valley’s prized fruit to markets across the country.
Bashir Ahmad Bashir, Chairman of the Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers and Dealers Union, welcomed the proposed service and said formalities were currently being completed.
He said discussions were also underway with railway authorities over the operational model, including whether the service would run as a full dedicated train or through individual bogies booked by growers and traders.
“This is a major step forward for Kashmir’s fruit industry. The Apple Train is expected to start from September 1 and will provide growers with a faster mode of transportation for taking their produce to markets outside Jammu and Kashmir,” Bashir said.
The proposed service could prove particularly important during the peak harvesting season, when timely transportation can make a significant difference to the quality and market value of apples. Faster rail movement is expected to reduce transit delays and post-harvest losses while giving growers improved access to major consumption centres.
Apple cultivation remains a key pillar of Kashmir’s rural economy. The Valley produces around 1.7 million metric tonnes of apples annually, with nearly 35 to 40 lakh families estimated to be directly or indirectly associated with apple cultivation, trade, transportation and related activities.
Weather-hit growers look for better returns
The proposed rail service comes at a crucial juncture for growers, many of whom have suffered losses this year due to hailstorms and erratic weather conditions.
With a portion of the crop already damaged, growers are hoping that faster transportation will help them move the remaining marketable produce quickly, allowing apples to reach consumers while retaining their freshness and commercial value.
For years, transportation has remained a critical component of Kashmir’s fruit trade, particularly during the harvesting season when large volumes of produce have to be moved simultaneously to markets outside J&K.
The Apple Train is therefore being viewed by growers as more than just an alternative mode of transport. It could provide an additional link between Kashmir’s orchards and major markets, potentially reducing dependence on road transportation and improving the efficiency of the fruit supply chain.
If operationalised as planned, the September 1 launch could mark a significant new chapter for Kashmir’s horticulture sector, putting the Valley’s apples on a faster track from orchard to market.
