First-Ever Rail Freight of Industrial Salt Reaches Kashmir | 31 Dec 2025

Why in News?

A freight train carrying industrial salt from Gujarat has reached the Kashmir Valley for the first time, marking a milestone in rail freight connectivity.

Key Points

• Uses of Industrial Salt: The salt is primarily used in tanning, pulp, soap manufacturing, and sometimes in brick kilns.
• Boost to Rail Connectivity: The movement is enabled by Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project.
• Significance : 
  • Ensures continuous and cost-effective supply of essential industrial commodities. 
  • Reduces reliance on road transport, especially during adverse weather conditions. 
  • Lowers logistics cost and transit time for industries in the region.
  • Reflects the integration of Kashmir into India’s national rail freight network.