SCR Officials held a virtual meeting with Andhra government representatives and the region’s trader/farmer community to explore the potential of a Kisan Rail service from Anantapur to North India.
Anantapur is the horticultural hub of Andhra Pradesh. Fruits like Sweet Lime, Pomegranate, Water Melons, Musk Melons, Papaya, Banana, Guava are cultivated in the district. The produce is transported to consumption centres all over the country by road. However, higher transit time leads to increased spoilage.
Showing interest in the proposal, farmers, traders and exporters have requested running such a service on a daily basis during the peak harvesting season between October and May. The possibility of operating such trains from Anantapur, Dharmavaram and Tadipatri railway stations was also discussed, according to a statement from South Central Railway.
Also suggested were stoppages of the trains enroute, such as at Bhopal and Jhansi, for loading and unloading of goods. For better handling of goods, refrigerated parcel vans and cold storage facilities at railway premises were also suggested.
SCR also informed the participants that they are exploring the possibility for loading milk from Anantapur to New Delhi on the lines of loading being done from Renigunta.
Alok Tiwari, Divisional Railway Manager, Guntakal along with other Divisional Officials met representatives comprising over 40 delegates. The meeting also saw participation from all important Public Representatives from Andhra Pradesh State including Talari Ranganna, Member of Parliament, Anantapur, Anantha Venkata Rami Reddy, Member of Legislative Assembly, Ananatapur, T. Prakash Reddy, Member of Legislative Assembly, Rapthadu and Gandam Chandrudu, Anantapur District Collector among others.