J&K BJP General Secretary (Organization) Ashok Koul on Friday hailed the Union Government’s decision to introduce a daily time-tabled parcel train service from Budgam to Adarsh Nagar, Delhi, describing it as a “lifeline” for Kashmir’s apple industry, which has been hit hard by the prolonged closure of the Srinagar–Jammu National Highway (NH-44).
The initiative, announced by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, will ensure direct and reliable access to Azadpur Mandi in Delhi, Asia’s largest fruit market, thereby minimizing delays and losses.
“This is a historic decision that reflects Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to the welfare of every section of society, including the hardworking farmers and growers of Kashmir,” Koul said in a statement. He added that the new service will save crores in losses, restore confidence among growers and traders, and act as a “game-changer for the horticulture sector.”
Highlighting the industry’s significance, Koul noted that apple cultivation sustains over 3.5 million people in J&K and contributes nearly 8% to the UT’s GDP. He expressed confidence that the train service would help stabilize prices, reduce wastage, and ensure timely market access during the peak harvest season.
Koul also lauded the proactive role of the Union Government and Indian Railways. “This bold step shows how infrastructure development under PM Modi’s leadership is being used to solve long-standing regional problems,” he remarked, while thanking the local administration for swiftly arranging logistics at Budgam Railway Station.
He urged farmers and traders to fully utilize the service and reiterated BJP’s commitment to advocating long-term infrastructure development in the Union Territory.(KINS)
