Jammu & Kashmir Switch to Hindi
First Cherry Cargo Train
Why in News?
In a first-of-its-kind initiative to transport perishable produce from Jammu and Kashmir, the Jammu Railway Division is set to flag off its first Cherry Cargo Train.
Key Points
- About the Cherry Cargo Train:
- It has been launched by the Northern Railway, Jammu Division, to create a reliable rail-based transportation channel for perishable agricultural goods.
- It is designed specifically to facilitate the shipment of cherries and similar produce to markets outside J&K.
- Logistics and Route:
- The cargo will be transported from Katra Railway Station in Jammu and Kashmir to Bandra Railway Station in Mumbai.
- A Parcel Van (VP) will be attached to a regular goods train for this purpose.
- VP is a request for the allocation of a full parcel van for the shipment of goods.
- The journey is expected to take 30 hours, significantly reducing transit time compared to traditional road transport.
- Stakeholders and Planning:
- This effort was finalized after extensive consultations between the Northern Railway, the Horticulture Department of J&K, and various fruit grower associations.
Significance and Benefits of the Initiative
- Benefits for Fruit Growers:
- The use of rail transport ensures that perishable produce like cherries reaches markets faster, thereby reducing the chances of spoilage and maintaining quality.
- It provides a cost-effective alternative to road transportation, benefiting small and medium-scale growers economically.
- Impact on the Region:
- The initiative is expected to boost the economy of J&K by enhancing the market reach of its agricultural products.
- It will also help reduce road traffic congestion and environmental pollution, making it a sustainable option for future freight movement.
- If successful, this model could be replicated for other produce such as apples, pears, and plums, expanding its benefits further.
Kashmir’s Cherry
- Cherry is a crucial early-season fruit crop in Kashmir, typically harvested during May and June.
- J&K contributes approximately 95% of India’s total cherry production, making it the leading producer in the country.
- Five main cherry varieties grown in Kashmir include:
- Mishri – the sweetest and most expensive.
- Double cherry – widely cultivated for canning, juice, and jam.
- Makhmali, Black (Gol), and Awal Number – locally popular.
- Cherry farming is an important source of mid-year income for fruit growers, especially before the apple harvest season.
- The crop is extremely sensitive to weather conditions, especially:
- Heavy rainfall – which causes the fruit to crack and rot.
- Hailstorms and temperature drops – which disrupt harvesting and reduce shelf life.