Jammu, Apr 13 : In a move set to bolster freight logistics and energy security in the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, the Northern Railway’s Jammu Division on Monday signed a commercial agreement with Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) for a ‘Gati Shakti Multi-Modal Cargo Terminal’ (GCT) siding at Bajalta, Jammu.
The agreement, inked by Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Uchit Singhal on behalf of the Railways and Territory Manager (Retail) – Jammu, Chandan Chauhan for BPCL, is aimed at enhancing transportation efficiency for the Jammu Common User Facility (CUF). Officials said the new siding will ensure smooth movement of petroleum products, strengthening the region’s energy supply chain.
With a total storage capacity of 1,09,225 kilolitres, the terminal is capable of handling two rakes per day, facilitating a monthly supply of approximately 1,62,000 metric tonnes of petroleum products using modern tank wagons. The facility is scheduled to become operational by the end of this month.
Highlighting the strategic significance, Mr Singhal said the project would ensure an uninterrupted, year-round supply of petroleum products to the vital regions of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
“The commissioning of this terminal will significantly alleviate pressure of tank lorries on Jammu city roads, facilitating smoother local traffic flow,” he said.
He added that transporting goods via rail would lead to a substantial reduction in carbon emissions, generate direct and indirect employment for locals, and bolster the regional economy. “Rail transport is considerably more cost-effective than road transport, reducing logistics costs. Moreover, using dedicated tank wagons will bring significant improvements in health, safety, and environmental standards,” Mr Singhal noted.
Railway officials termed the development a historic step for energy security and infrastructure under the ‘Gati Shakti’ initiative, adding that the state-of-the-art automation and robust rail-road connectivity would serve as the logistical backbone of the region for decades to come. (KNS)
