Freight Train Brings Cement to Anantnag amid J&K’s Infra Boom
Freight Train to Anantnag in Kashmir valley! (Image Northern railways)
Maiden freight service to Anantnag Goods Shed marks a breakthrough in Kashmir’s economic integration, delivering 21 wagons of cement
By AMIT KUMAR
NEW DELHI, August 9, 2025 — In a landmark moment for Kashmir’s connectivity and economic aspirations, the first-ever freight train carrying cement has arrived at the newly commissioned Anantnag Goods Shed from Rupnagar, Punjab. The milestone signals the Kashmir Valley’s full integration into the national freight network and promises to accelerate infrastructure development across the region.
The inaugural rake, comprising 21 BCN wagons loaded with cement, completed its nearly 600-kilometre journey in under 18 hours. Departing from Gujarat Ambuja Cement Limited’s Rupnagar facility at 6:55 p.m. on August 8, the consignment was hauled by a modern Electric WAG-9 locomotive, showcasing Indian Railways’ advanced freight capabilities.
The logistical execution was meticulous: an indent for the train was placed late on August 7, rake placement occurred the next morning, and loading was completed the same evening — allowing for an expedited departure and swift delivery.
The cement will be used for a host of vital projects in the Kashmir Valley, including road and bridge construction, public infrastructure upgrades, and residential housing initiatives. Officials see this as the beginning of regular freight services to the Valley, lowering logistical costs and ensuring faster supply chains for critical materials.
“This is not just a logistical achievement — it’s a powerful symbol of progress, unity, and opportunity for the people of Kashmir,” said Himanshu Shekhar Upadhyay, Chief Public Relations Officer of Northern Railway.
The arrival of the train is expected to fuel economic activity, create jobs, and improve living standards in the Valley, setting the stage for sustained growth and deeper integration with India’s industrial and commercial hubs.
Background: From Passenger to Freight — A Rail Connectivity Leap in Kashmir
Just two months ago, India marked a historic breakthrough in Kashmir’s integration: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first-ever direct Vande Bharat Express passenger service between Katra and Srinagar. This milestone was accompanied by the opening of the long-anticipated 272 km Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL)—a monumental project featuring India’s engineering marvel, the Chenab Rail Bridge, the tallest railway arch bridge in the world.
Traversing 36 tunnels and 943 bridges, this rail corridor finally connected the picturesque yet remote Kashmir Valley to India’s plains by both road and rail. The USBRL also ushered in two new Vande Bharat EMUs, drastically reducing travel time, bolstering tourism, and expanding critical connectivity in the region.
Today’s arrival of the first-ever freight train, laden with cement from Rupnagar to Anantnag, signals the next chapter in this transformative journey—shifting from passenger access to economic empowerment. Just as the Vande Bharat trains opened doors for people, freight services are now unlocking avenues for progress, trade, and lasting infrastructure growth in Kashmir.
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