Maharashtra farmers get a new lifeline to transport onions, grapes, and other produce to distant markets at minimal cost.
New Delhi, Oct 15, 2024: In a significant boost to agricultural logistics, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw launched the ‘Shetkari Samriddhi’ special farmer train from Deolali in Maharashtra to Danapur in Bihar. The launch event was held at Deolali Railway Station, with the minister joining virtually from Rail Bhavan, Delhi.
The initiative aims to provide affordable, fast transportation for Maharashtra’s farmers to sell their produce in other states, ensuring better market access and fair pricing. The train will stop at key stations such as Nashik, Manmad, Jalgaon, Itarsi, Jabalpur, and Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Nagar, providing farmers with seamless connectivity across multiple regions.
Affordable Transport for Farmers and Workers
The ‘Shetkari Samriddhi’ farmer train offers farmers the option to transport their crops at just ₹4 per kilogram from Maharashtra to Bihar. The 1,515 km journey will cost less than 28 paise per kilogram per kilometer, making it feasible for perishable goods to reach distant markets without losses.
Both small and large farmers can avail of the train’s dedicated parcel vans, and general coaches will be available for workers, enabling affordable travel.
“This initiative will ensure farmers get better prices for their crops by accessing distant markets,” said Minister Vaishnaw. He emphasized that this project would uplift agricultural livelihoods and provide farmers with an efficient transportation option.
Boost to Maharashtra’s Railway Infrastructure
Minister Vaishnaw announced a massive surge in railway development spending in Maharashtra, with the budget rising from ₹1,171 crore in 2014 to ₹15,940 crore this year. The government has also approved 41 new rail projects, laying 5,870 km of new railway lines, with a proposed investment of ₹81,000 crore.
The development of 132 stations as Amrit Stations is part of the government’s vision to enhance rail infrastructure. Additionally, 318 flyovers and road under-bridges are under construction to improve connectivity.
Expansion of Vande Bharat and Bullet Train Projects
The minister also highlighted the expansion of Mumbai’s railway network, stating that 11 Vande Bharat Express trains have been approved for Maharashtra, with six already operational.
Vaishnaw shared progress on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project, stating, “Over 350 km of pier foundations, 316 km of pier structures, and 221 km of girder casting have been completed. The project also includes a 7 km underwater tunnel, reflecting Indian Railways’ commitment to modern infrastructure.”
Local Connectivity and Employment Opportunities
Vaishnaw underlined the government’s efforts to enhance Mumbai’s suburban network, including quadrupling the Virar-Dahanu Road line. “These upgrades will not only improve urban mobility but also create new job opportunities,” he said.
He further mentioned that the expansion of local rail services will enhance passenger comfort and cater to the growing demand in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
Farmers and Citizens Celebrate New Milestone
Addressing the audience, Vaishnaw congratulated Maharashtra’s farmers and citizens, stating that this special train fulfills their long-standing demand.
“This train ensures that our farmers can transport their crops efficiently and profitably. Indian Railways is committed to supporting both farmers and workers with affordable services,” he said, adding that similar farmer-friendly trains will be launched based on the success of this pilot project.
The event concluded with remarks from Central Railway General Manager Dharmveer Meena, who joined via video conferencing from Mumbai
(Economy India)
