Western Railway Sets New Benchmark in Freight Transportation

First Train Loaded with Spices Flagged Off from Mehsana to Azara, Assam

Western Railway is continuously achieving new milestones in freight transportation and revenue generation, thereby providing a new direction to Indian Railways’ freight operations. Western Railway has been undertaking several significant and innovative initiatives in the field of freight transportation, which are not only promoting commercial activities but also strengthening the nationwide supply chain.

In this connection, on 06 May 2026, the first “Deemed VP Rake” loaded with 4,200 quintals of cumin seeds was flagged off from Mehsana station in Gujarat to Azara station in Assam under Rangiya Division of Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR). The Deemed VP Rake, comprising a total of 30 BCN wagons, commenced its journey covering an approximate distance of 2,477 kilometres. A total of 13,800 packages of spices were loaded in the rake, with a total weight of approximately 4,20,000 kilograms (420 tonnes). Through this operation, the Railways earned more than ₹25.28 lakh in freight revenue.

This marks a historic achievement for Ahmedabad Division, as organized rail transportation of spices has been carried out for the first time in this sector. This initiative will play a significant role in directly connecting Gujarat’s spice industry with the markets of Northeast India. At the same time, it will further strengthen rail transport as a safe, economical, and environment-friendly mode of transportation. This initiative will provide major convenience to traders and exporters and will open up greater possibilities for similar freight movements in the future.

The successful operation of this Deemed VP Rake reflects Ahmedabad Division’s excellent freight handling capability, efficient logistics management, and customer-oriented services. Ahmedabad Division remains committed to providing fast, safe, and reliable freight transportation services in line with future business requirements.