Onion Express: India's Rail Solution to Volatile Prices

The Indian government is using rail transport to deliver buffer onion supplies to control soaring prices. Recent shipments to Delhi and Chennai are part of efforts by NAFED and NCCF to stabilize onion prices amid high demand. Retail prices remain high but are expected to drop due to these interventions.

The government has taken decisive steps to address the soaring onion prices by utilizing rail transport for timely delivery. On Wednesday, 840 tonnes of buffer onions arrived at Delhi's Kishanganj station as part of this strategy, following an earlier shipment of 1,600 tonnes via the 'Kanda Express'.

NAFED has procured these shipments under the price stabilization fund, with plans to release them primarily through Azadpur Mandi. Some of these onions will also be available for retail sale at Rs 35 per kg. Currently, onion prices in Delhi range from Rs 60-80 per kg, depending on quality and location.

This innovative approach marks the first time the government has used rail transport for onion distribution, highlighting its commitment to effective price control across regions. Coupled with road dispatches and strategic partnerships, these efforts aim to stabilize the onion market nationwide.

(With inputs from agencies.)