The frequent closures of the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, plagued by landslides, snow, or security issues, have deepened the economic woes of Jammu and Kashmir’s fruit growers. Imported essentials like fuel and medicines are now exorbitantly priced, while the region’s prized apples, cherries, and other fruits, destined for export, fetch abysmally low returns due to delayed or stalled shipments. This economic stranglehold, caused by unreliable road transport, has left farmers in distress, unable to sustain livelihoods. The completion of the 272-km Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) in June 2025 was a landmark achievement, connecting Kashmir to India’s rail network. Yet, the absence of regular freight trains has rendered this milestone hollow for the region’s economy.
Kashmir’s fruit industry, a vital economic pillar, is in peril. Growers, who gave up land and orchards for the rail project, were promised seamless access to national markets. However, with only a trial cement train reaching Anantnag in August 2025, the lack of dedicated freight services means perishable produce often spoils in transit, slashing farmers’ earnings. Meanwhile, highway disruptions keep imported goods costly, exacerbating the crisis. This disconnect highlights a broader issue: Kashmir’s economic integration with India remains incomplete despite infrastructural advancements.
The USBRL, featuring engineering feats like the Chenab Bridge, symbolizes India’s commitment to connectivity. Yet, without robust freight infrastructure, its benefits elude Kashmiris. Freight terminals are still under construction, delaying relief for traders. The government must prioritize regular freight train operations, establish cold storage at stations, and ensure all-weather rail reliability to complement the highway’s role. Kashmir’s people are integral to India’s fabric—equipping the railway with load-carrying trains is not just an economic necessity but a vital step toward true inclusion and prosperity.
