How Did 1.73 Crore Apple Boxes Reach Markets Despite Adverse Weather?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 1.73 crore apple boxes transported despite adverse weather.
- Significant increase from 1.23 crore boxes last year.
- Roads were restored quickly for smooth transportation.
- Government provided extensive support under the Market Intervention Scheme.
- HPMC has set up 274 collection centers for apple procurement.
Shimla, Sep 19 (NationPress) In the face of heavy rainfall and substantial road damage in Himachal Pradesh, 1.73 crore apple boxes of 20 kg each have successfully been delivered to various markets, according to a government announcement made on Friday.
This achievement represents a notable rise from the 1.23 crore boxes shipped during the same timeframe last year.
The government confirmed that damaged roads have been repaired or temporarily reopened swiftly to facilitate the uninterrupted transport of apples.
Throughout the peak of the damage, government services operated continuously to assist apple growers.
A spokesperson from the government revealed that from the districts of Shimla and Kinnaur, 1.09 crore boxes were sold through the APMC compared to 77,40,164 boxes last year.
From the APMC in Mandi, 16,81,055 boxes were sold, a decline from 89,19,893 boxes during the previous year, while the Solan APMC recorded 24,90,835 boxes sold, up from 22,18,685 boxes. The Kullu APMC also noted sales of 20,88,374 boxes, a rise from 14,03,392 boxes in 2024.
The spokesperson added that the government has not only ensured smooth apple transportation but has also provided additional benefits to orchardists under the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS).
So far, the HPMC has procured over 55,000 metric tonnes of apples, more than double last year's figures.
To support this effort, HPMC has established 274 collection centers where apple procurement is actively ongoing. The fruit processing plants operated by HPMC in Parala (Shimla district), Parwanoo (Solan district), and Jarol (Mandi district) are processing nearly 400 tonnes of apples each day.
Despite the challenging weather conditions, the government is dedicated to assisting apple growers, ensuring they do not miss out on financial opportunities. In response to the apple transportation efforts, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu stated, "The government is fully committed to protecting the interests of apple growers and ensuring their welfare. We have introduced the Universal Carton to secure fair prices and eliminate the exploitation of horticulturists."