Pampore goods shed handles first freight train, boosting Kashmir logistics

The Kashmir Valley’s rail freight network received a major fillip on Friday as the newly opened Pampore Goods Shed handled its first rake of cement within a day of becoming operational, paving the way for faster and more efficient movement of goods.

The first freight train was successfully handled at Pampore (PMPE) Goods Shed located on the Baramulla/Sangaldan rail section in the Kashmir Valley. The Goods Shed, which commenced operations on 15 July after approval from the competent authority, received its first rake within 24 hours, marking a major achievement for the region.

This is the second Goods Shed in the Kashmir Valley after Anantnag. This first handling has proven that the new shed is ready to play an immediate and effective role in the movement of goods and logistics to and from Kashmir.

At Pampore Goods Shed, the first rake brought in cement. This rake arrived at Pampore carrying 21 BCN wagons each from Bharatgarh and Kiratpur Sahib of Ambala Division loaded with UltraTech, ACC and Ambuja Cement. Booking and handling facilities are available at the Goods Shed from 06:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

The start of the Goods Shed at Pampore and the handling of the first rake will bring direct benefits to the Kashmir Valley:

First, fruit growers, farmers, and traders of cement and construction materials in the valley will no longer have to depend on Anantnag or other distant locations to bring in or dispatch their goods. This will result in substantial savings in both time and transportation costs.

Second, new employment opportunities will be created at the local level in loading-unloading, transportation, packaging and other allied services, which will strengthen the local economy.

Third, the pressure on Anantnag Goods Shed will reduce and clearance of goods will become faster and smoother. This will make the movement of goods from Kashmir to outside and from outside to Kashmir more reliable.

Fourth, improved freight movement will give momentum to industrial and business activities in the region and increase railway revenue. This additional revenue will be utilized for the expansion of passenger amenities.

On this historic occasion, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Jammu, Uchit Singhal said, “The handling of the first rake within 24 hours at Pampore Goods Shed is a matter of pride for Jammu Division and the Kashmir Valley. This shed has been built keeping in mind the needs of the business community. From today, Kashmir’s logistics connectivity has entered a new era. We are confident that this shed will prove to be a milestone in the overall development of the region.”

The Railway administration appeals to all trade organizations, industrialists and the general public to avail maximum benefit from this facility and become partners with Railways in promoting “Make in Kashmir”.