In a historic move set to redefine automobile logistics in the Kashmir Valley, Northern Railway has successfully dispatched its first-ever auto freight train, delivering 116 Maruti Suzuki vehicles from Manesar, Haryana to Anantnag, Kashmir. The initiative marks a significant step in integrating Kashmir more closely with India’s robust freight and automobile supply chain — a move that spells both economic and logistical transformation for the region.
The automobile rake, loaded from Maruti Suzuki’s in-plant Gati Shakti Terminal, covered approximately 850 kilometers in 45 hours, arriving safely at the Anantnag goods shed, now becoming a hub of freight activity. Among the models transported in this maiden shipment were popular variants like the Brezza, Dzire, WagonR, and S-Presso.
A Shift in How Kashmir Buys Cars
Until now, car dealerships in Kashmir had to rely on dozens of drivers to manually bring vehicles from Jammu via the winding, often-congested Srinagar-Jammu national highway. This meant buyers were unknowingly handed over vehicles that had already clocked hundreds of kilometers — diminishing the thrill of owning a “brand-new” car.
With the introduction of this freight rail service, that practice comes to an end.
“This isn’t just about transportation — it’s about trust,” shared a local car dealer. “Now, when we hand over a car to a customer, we can confidently say they are the first to ever drive it.”
This rail link doesn’t just bring speed and safety; it brings authenticity and assurance.
More Than Just Cars
The Anantnag goods shed has been seeing increased activity ever since it received its first cement consignment from Punjab on August 9. Since then, the facility has handled not only cement but also army winter stocks, fruits, and various essential goods, becoming a critical node in Kashmir’s supply chain infrastructure.
This milestone represents more than just a logistical improvement — it is a symbol of progress, integration, and economic opportunity for a region long dependent on traditional, slower modes of freight movement.
