Kashmir Fruit Association secures parcel van for cherry transport via Vivek Express

Jammu: In a major step toward enhancing the transport of perishable horticulture produce from Kashmir, a high-level delegation of the Fruit Association, Fruit Mandi, Parimpora, Srinagar, has secured arrangements for the transportation of cherries from Jammu to Mumbai and other destinations across the country.

The delegation, led by Bashir Ahmad Basheer, President of the Association, along with  Ali Mohammad Reshi, Chairman of the Transport Committee, and Mohammad Yaseen Bhat, held a detailed meeting today with  Ucchit Singhal, IRTS, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Rail Head, Jammu Tawi.

During the meeting, the delegation successfully negotiated the attachment of a VPU (Parcel Van Unit) with Train No. 19028 Vivek Express, having a carrying capacity of 25 tonnes. This development was confirmed and agreed upon by the Railway authorities, with the condition that an advance payment for freight charges of the entire 25-ton capacity would be required—even if the actual load is less than that.

Importantly, the VPU will be attached from SVDK Station (Katra), and not Jammu Tawi, as the Vivek Express begins its run from there. The delegation announced that it would further visit Katra to oversee and finalize logistics, ensuring that the cherry crop is transported safely and efficiently.

In addition to the arrangement with Vivek Express, the delegation is also pursuing the attachment of a VPU with Train No. 12472 Sawraj Express. Efforts are already underway to secure this connection, which would further strengthen the cold supply chain for Kashmir’s cherry growers, allowing produce to reach distant markets quickly and with minimal spoilage.

 Bashir Ahmad Basheer, while speaking to Ziraat Times speaking, expressed optimism about the outcome of the visit. “This arrangement will significantly ease the burden on cherry growers and traders, who often face challenges with delayed or unsafe transport. We are hopeful this logistical support will improve returns and reduce post-harvest losses,” he said.

The delegation also appreciated the cooperation and responsiveness of the Railway authorities, calling the meeting a “fruitful outcome” of collaborative efforts between growers and the transport administration.

Cherry, a highly perishable crop, is an important seasonal produce of Kashmir’s horticulture sector. Efficient and temperature-controlled transport mechanisms are critical to ensuring its timely delivery to metropolitan markets such as Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru, especially during the May-June harvest window.