📍 Anantnag, October 3, 2025 : Kashmir received its first automobile freight train on Friday, as 116 Maruti Suzuki vehicles from the company’s Manesar plant rolled into the Anantnag Goods Shed, marking a historic milestone in automobile transportation to the Valley.
Until now, new cars had to be driven nearly 300 km along the treacherous Jammu–Srinagar highway, often delayed by winter closures and landslides. With the new facility, vehicles can now be dispatched directly by rail, ensuring faster, safer and damage-free delivery.
“This is a game-changer for the people of Jammu & Kashmir,” said Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, citing the Jammu–Srinagar rail link’s growing role in boosting trade — from apple consignments to now automobiles.
Maruti Suzuki, the first automobile manufacturer to use this service, dispatched models including Brezza, Dzire, WagonR, and S-Presso. The initiative aligns with the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan, leveraging the world’s highest Chenab railway arch bridge for seamless connectivity.
Dealers in Kashmir welcomed the move, saying it would save time, reduce wear-and-tear on new cars, and improve availability.
“…Earlier, cars had already clocked 300 km by the time they reached us. Now, customers will get brand-new vehicles straight from the plant,” said Irfan Ahmad Narwaroo, MD of Jamkash Vehicleades, the Valley’s largest Maruti dealership.
