The government is planning to launch a dedicated horticulture rail transport system by March with an investment of over Rs 18 crore that will link the wholesale markets of the country.
The aim is to reduce the wastage of surplus fruits and vegetables informed a senior official . "We have sent a proposal to the agriculture ministry for approval and are expecting to launch the trial run in two months, sometime in March," said Bijay Kumar, managing director of National Horticulture Board (NHB). "This initiative will cost over Rs 18 crore and help in transporting fresh fruits and vegetables to different parts of the country in less time without causing damage. This will reduce wastage of surplus horticultural produce," added Ku mar. According to industry estimates, India loses over Rs 55,000 crore worth of harvested produce.