India, Aug. 8 -- Indian Railways on Friday completed its first-ever trial run of a fuel-laden freight train carrying BTPN bogie petrol/diesel tankers into the Kashmir Valley via the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) route.

For decades, the Kashmir Valley has depended heavily on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) for essential supplies, including fuel.

After the launch of train services to the Kashmir Valley, fuel trains were held back due to safety concerns, particularly the route's long tunnels and fire risks. After extensive safety assessments, the first trial has now been completed successfully.

The rail-based supply of petrol and diesel is expected to deliver faster, safer and more reliable fuel transportation,...