In a major logistics breakthrough, Maruti Suzuki India Limited has become the first car company in the country to transport new vehicles by train directly into the Kashmir Valley.
The Historic Journey
The first trainload, carrying over 100 popular models like the WagonR, Dzire, Brezza, and S-Presso, started its journey from Maruti’s manufacturing base in Manesar, Haryana. It travelled over 850 kilometers to reach the recently opened Anantnag railway terminal in Jammu & Kashmir.
Crucially, the route involved crossing the Chenab River via the world's highest railway arch bridge. This engineering marvel, part of the new Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link, is seen as a major factor in improving regional connectivity.
Leaders and Industry React
Union Minister for Railways, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, emphasized the importance of this railway link, calling the Jammu–Srinagar line a "game changer" for the people and economy of Jammu & Kashmir. He noted that the rail link, which recently transported apples out of the Valley, is now bringing in new cars.
Mr. Hisashi Takeuchi, CEO of Maruti Suzuki, expressed gratitude for the new infrastructure, stating that rail transport is essential to the company’s plans. He highlighted that the Chenab bridge enables seamless and efficient connectivity, allowing the company to better serve customers in the region.
This new, efficient transport route arrives just in time for the busy festive season. Maruti Suzuki recently announced delivering over 1.65 lakh vehicles in the first eight days of Navratri alone, with total deliveries expected to cross 2 lakh units by the end of the festival. The company currently has a large pending order book of nearly 2.5 lakh vehicles from customers.