(a) the details and the present status of running horticulture trains for transportation
of perishable commodities in the country, zone and route-wise; and
(b) the extent to which such services have become useful in the country?
(a) the details and the present status of running horticulture trains for transportation
of perishable commodities in the country, zone and route-wise; and
(b) the extent to which such services have become useful in the country?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS (SHRI ADHIR RANJAN CHOWDHURY)
(a) Container Corporation of India Ltd. (CONCOR) together with National Horticulture Board
(NHB) have developed one rake of 90 insulated containers for transportation of perishable
commodities on Railway system. The aim of this was to provide safe, secure and fast
transportation of horticulture produce through Railways. This rake has primarily been
utilized for moving Bananas from Bhusawal in Central Railway to New Azadpur in Northern
Railway in form of full rake of 80 containers. This service was provided till December,
2012 end whereafter there has been no demand.
(b) As per the assessment of National Horticulture Board (NHB), the running of this particular
train brought down wastage of perishables to a negligible level. However, trade is not willing
to avail the services at the prices offered to them. Issue has been reviewed and prices have
been reduced.