Indian Railways Uses Covered Wagons for Bulk Onion Transport

Indian Railways uses covered wagons for bulk onion transportation, with 271 rakes loaded in 2023-24. The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution has not requested refrigerated wagons for onion transportation. The Container Corporation of India (CONCOR) provides rail-based refrigerated container services.

Containers with 27,771 refrigerated containers transported in 2023-24. CONCOR has developed temperature-controlled storage facilities. In a significant move to boost the efficient transportation of essential agricultural commodities, Indian Railways has introduced covered wagons for the bulk transport of onions across the country.

This new initiative is set to address the challenges faced by onion farmers and traders who have long struggled with the preservation and timely delivery of their produce. Onions, a staple in Indian kitchens, are highly perishable, and any delay in transportation or exposure to the elements can result in significant losses.

The Need for Covered Wagons

Onions, which are grown in various parts of India, from Maharashtra and Karnataka to Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh, face considerable transportation challenges due to their highly perishable nature. The vegetable has a short shelf life, and improper handling or exposure to extreme weather conditions, such as rain or intense heat, can cause quality degradation, leading to wastage.

Traditionally, onions were transported in open freight wagons, exposing them to the elements, which resulted in spoilage, especially during the monsoon season. In addition, logistical challenges such as delayed deliveries and inconsistent supply further exacerbated the problem. This not only affected the income of farmers but also caused price fluctuations in the market, hurting consumers as well.

Recognizing the need to address these issues, Indian Railways has introduced covered freight wagons to safeguard onions during transit. These wagons are designed to protect the produce from external elements such as rain, dust, and excessive heat, ensuring that onions reach their destination in better condition and in a timely manner.

Features of the Covered Wagons

The covered wagons used for transporting onions are specially designed to provide enhanced protection during transit. These wagons come with a weather-proof covering that shields the produce from rain, wind, and dust, thus preventing spoilage and quality degradation. The use of covered wagons also helps maintain the ideal temperature and humidity levels required to keep onions fresh.

These wagons are equipped with ventilation systems to ensure proper air circulation, preventing the build-up of moisture that could lead to the growth of mold or rotting. This feature is especially important when transporting onions over long distances, as it helps preserve the quality and shelf life of the produce Additionally.

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The introduction of covered wagons for onion transport is expected to yield significant benefits for both farmers and consumers across the country. For farmers, the new system provides a reliable and cost-effective method of transporting onions, which will reduce the risks associated with spoilage during transit By minimizing.

Additionally, the timely and efficient transport of onions will reduce the price volatility that has long been a concern for both producers and consumers. Onion prices in India are notorious for fluctuations, often rising sharply during peak demand TO seasons or following natural disasters that disrupt the supply chain. With better transportation infrastructure, the supply of onions will be more consistent, ensuring that prices remain stable and fair.

For consumers, the benefits are equally important. The improved transportation system will ensure a steady supply of fresh onions in markets, reducing the instances of price hikes caused by shortages. It will also ensure that onions remain in better condition for longer periods, providing higher quality produce to households across.

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