Onion Special Train Initiative: Bhusaval Division Supports Farmers and Stabilizes Prices
In a bid to tackle rising onion prices and support farmers, the Bhusaval Division of Central Railway has launched an innovative rail transport initiative, ensuring timely delivery of onions from Nasik to major consumer markets across India. This initiative is designed to curb inflation by facilitating faster, bulk deliveries, offering a cost-effective alternative to road transport.
Starting on October 16, 2024, the first special train carrying onions departed from the Kasbe Sukene and Lasalgaon goods sheds in Nashik District. The initiative has seen a total of six rakes dispatched, including one full rake and five mini rakes, carrying approximately 9,332 tonnes of onions to destinations like Delhi, Chennai, and Guwahati.
On November 14, 2024, a total of 1,314 tonnes of onions were dispatched from Lasalgaon to Delhi’s Kishanganj market, adding to the earlier shipments. Other consignments have been sent to cities such as Chennai (Korukkupet) and Guwahati (Changsari), contributing significantly to the stabilization of onion prices.
This initiative is part of the Shetkari Samruddhi Vishesh Rail scheme, which aims to support the transportation of perishable goods like onions, pomegranates, custard apples, and more. The scheme has already loaded 262 tonnes of perishables, generating an estimated revenue of Rs. 10 lakh until November 9, 2024.
The onion transport has already generated approximately Rs. 1.17 crore in revenue for the Bhusaval Division. The scheme is not only helping farmers by providing a bulk transportation solution but also benefiting urban consumers by ensuring a consistent supply of onions at controlled prices.
This shift to rail transport, in coordination with cooperatives like NAFED and NCCF, marks a significant milestone in the modernization of agricultural logistics and price stabilization efforts. The Central Railway continues to work towards maintaining the tempo of these bulk deliveries in the coming months.
