Maligaon, May 05: The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has initiated the operation of a dedicated Parcel Cargo Express Train (PCET) service between Agartala in Tripura and Sanehwal in Punjab.

This logistic cargo train aims towards facilitating and enhancing the transportation of key commodities such as rubber and pineapples etc. from Agartala in Northeast to broader markets. This initiative is set to strengthen the region’s trade infrastructure and support local economies further.

The PCET, designated with train numbers 00832/00833, is scheduled to run twice a month, totalling of 144 round trips over a six-year period. Initially, the train will comprise of 15 parcel vans and one brake van, with further plans to expand to 20 parcel vans after six months to accommodate the anticipated increasing demand.

The service will facilitate efficient and timely movement of goods, reducing transit time thus providing a reliable logistics solution for traders and farmers of the region.

Following a transparent and competitive bidding process, AVG Logistics Ltd. has been awarded the lease to operate this train services. 

The total contract value stands at approximately Rs. 68.95 Cr., reflecting the significant investment towards bolstering the region’s supply chain capabilities. This will mark a major step towards encouraging more traders of the region to participate with similar activities with the most cost & efficient freight transportation system of the nation i.e. the Railways. 

This development further underscores NFR’s commitment towards fostering economic growth and improving connectivity in the Northeast region, thus aligning with Indian Railways broader vision for promoting parcel train services for long-haul freight needs of the nation. Kapinjal Kishore Sharma, Chief Public Relations Officer, shared the news in a press note.