JAMMU: In a major relief to traders in the Kashmir Valley, particularly fruit growers and handicraft merchants, the Jammu Division has announced the regular operation of the ‘Joint Parcel Product – Rapid Cargo Service’ (JPP-RCS) train between Adarsh Nagar Railway Station and Budgam Railway Station from April 17 to May 31.
The special parcel service, operating as Train Nos. 00461/00462, will initially run on a trial basis during this period. Officials said that based on occupancy and response, the service may be converted into a permanent operation.
As per the schedule, Train No. 00462 will depart from Budgam at 06:15 AM and reach Adarsh Nagar, Delhi at 05:00 AM the following day. On the return journey, Train No. 00461 will leave Adarsh Nagar at 05:00 AM and arrive in Budgam at 10:45 AM the next day. The timing at Bari Brahmana Railway Station has been revised to better serve the trading community.
The train will consist of eight parcel vans and one seating-cum-luggage rake, with scheduled halts at Bari Brahmana and Ambala Cantt Railway Station to facilitate loading and unloading.
Officials highlighted that the service will significantly reduce transit time to around 23–24 hours compared to road transport, ensuring that perishable goods such as apples, cherries, and other fruits reach markets fresh and undamaged.
The initiative is aimed at strengthening the economy of Jammu and Kashmir by enabling faster and more reliable transportation of local products, including saffron, walnuts, Pashmina shawls, and handicrafts, to markets across the country.
Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Jammu Division, Uchit Singhal, said the decision was taken in response to persistent demand from traders and farmers. He emphasized that the service is designed to provide a fast, safe, and economical transport solution for the region’s producers.
