Navsari: In a significant step towards strengthening agri-logistics for Gujarat farmers, the inaugural rake of sapodilla (chikoo) was dispatched from Amalsad to Delhi-NCR by the Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India Limited (DFCCIL) for the first time. Earlier, the fruit was transported only by road.

DFCCIL officials said the initiative will enable farmers to access major markets directly and will also ensure faster supply of fresh fruits to consumers in the National Capital Region (NCR).

The Amalsad Vibhag Vividh Karyakari Sahakari Khedut Mandali Ltd. dispatched the first consignment of sapodilla from New Ancheli (ACLN) station to Adarsh Nagar Mandi in Delhi. The full rake, operated under the Mumbai Division, carried fresh sapodilla loaded in a total of 15 parcel vans (VPs).

Transported at a freight cost of around ₹75,000, the consignment highlights the cost-efficiency of rail transport. Officials said shifting cargo movement to rail will help reduce the number of trucks on highways, thereby easing traffic congestion and lowering pollution levels. DeshGujarat