How is the Disruption of the Srinagar-Jammu Highway Impacting Life in Kashmir?
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Synopsis
The disruption of the Jammu-Srinagar highway has created a ripple effect in Kashmir, jeopardizing essential supplies and threatening the livelihood of fruit growers. Immediate restoration is crucial to prevent further losses and stabilize the region's economy.
Key Takeaways
- Ongoing disruption of Jammu-Srinagar highway severely impacts supplies.
- Fruit growers risk substantial losses due to stranded consignments.
- Government efforts are underway to restore traffic quickly.
- Rising prices for essentials are adding pressure to household budgets.
- Immediate action is vital to stabilize the region's economy.
Srinagar, Sep 16 (NationPress) The ongoing disruption of the Jammu-Srinagar national highway has significantly impacted the availability of essential supplies in Kashmir. Fruit growers and traders are deeply concerned about potential irreversible losses to their industry unless the highway is reopened to heavy traffic promptly.
The traffic department has advised that only light vehicles will be permitted on the Srinagar-Jammu highway on Tuesday.
Numerous trucks laden with apples have been stranded on the highway for several days, and their consignments are at risk of spoiling if the highway does not reopen soon.
These trucks are currently parked at various locations along the highway, unable to progress beyond Udhampur due to a section of the road sinking at Tharad.
A significant area of the road, about 50-60 meters near the Tharad Bridge, has collapsed, leading to the closure of the highway for traffic. Efforts to clear debris and restore the road are ongoing amidst further damage and unstable terrain.
Fruit growers have already incurred substantial losses due to the highway's closure, as the apple consignments in the halted trucks have begun to decay.
Growers are living on the edge in the Valley, fearing that if the highway is not restored immediately, the horticulture industry will suffer irreparable damage in Kashmir.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah stated on Monday via X, “I just spoke with Union Minister @MORTHIndia @nitin_gadkari Sb regarding the situation along NH 44 and the lack of connectivity with the rest of the country via this crucial link. The frustration of fruit growers is completely understandable. They have shown great patience during the initial days, but witnessing their hard work spoil due to @nhidcl's inability to stabilize the highway has understandably tested their patience. Concrete actions will be taken within the next 24 hours to resolve this issue, but I will wait for the developments before detailing any proposed plans.”
The disruption in the supply chain has led to most petrol stations in the Valley operating with limited stocks, with many displaying signs indicating stock exhaustion on Monday.
Long queues at petrol stations have heightened anxiety among the public.
Traders are selling edibles at inflated prices, citing the highway blockade as justification. Chicken is priced at Rs 190 per kg while eggs are going for Rs 240 per dozen in Srinagar.
The shortage is already straining household budgets. Prices for vegetables and other essential items are rising sharply in local markets.
Traders report that the prices of onions, tomatoes, and other essentials have doubled in some areas within a week, while milk and poultry costs are also increasing. Fortunately, medicines and food grains remain readily available, with no hoarding observed in the Valley.
Point of View
It is essential to acknowledge the plight of Kashmir's residents and fruit growers during this challenging time. The disruption of the Jammu-Srinagar highway not only affects the local economy but also highlights the need for robust infrastructure and emergency response strategies. While immediate solutions are being sought, the long-term implications of such disruptions must not be overlooked. The nation stands with Kashmir during this crisis.
NationPress
22/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the disruption of the Jammu-Srinagar highway?
The disruption was caused by the sinking of a section of the highway near the Tharad Bridge, which has led to the closure of the road for heavy traffic.
How are fruit growers affected by the highway closure?
Fruit growers are facing potential losses as their apple consignments are stranded and at risk of rotting due to the inability to transport them.
What measures are being taken to restore the highway?
Efforts are ongoing to clear debris and stabilize the road, with authorities promising concrete actions within 24 hours to resolve the issue.
Are essential supplies still available in Kashmir?
While medicines and food grains are available, the disruption has caused shortages and rising prices for other essentials like petrol and vegetables.
What is the current situation at petrol stations in Kashmir?
Many petrol stations are running low on stock, leading to long queues and heightened anxiety among residents.
