The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has launched a dedicated Parcel Cargo Express Train (PCET) service between Agartala in Tripura and Sanehwal in Punjab, aiming to progress the transportation of key commodities such as rubber and pineapples from the Northeast to wider markets across India.
Chosen with train numbers 00832/00833, the PCET will operate twice a month, completing a total of 144 round trips over the next six years. Initially, the train will consist of 15 parcel vans and one brake van. Plans are in place to expand the service to 20 parcel vans after six months, in expectation of increased demand.
This committed cargo service is expected to offer a faster, more dependable logistics solution for traders and farmers, reducing transit time and boosting competence in freight movement.
AVG Logistics Ltd. has secured the lease to operate the service through a transparent and competitive bidding process. The total contract value is approximately Rs. 68.95 crore, reflecting a significant investment in strengthening the supply chain infrastructure in the region.
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NFR officials emphasised that this initiative is a step forward in encouraging regional traders to utilise the cost-effective and efficient freight services offered by Indian Railways.
This move also brings into line with Indian Railways' broader vision to promote long-haul parcel train services, strengthening connectivity and economic growth in the Northeast.