How are Fruit-laden Trucks Navigating the J&K NH Disruption?
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Synopsis
The ongoing disruption of the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway has created significant challenges for fruit growers in Kashmir. Despite logistical hurdles, authorities have mobilized efforts to transport apples to external markets, highlighting the resilience of the region's horticulture sector amidst adversity.
Key Takeaways
- 1200 fruit-laden trucks have been mobilized to transport apples.
- Railways have facilitated the shipment of 2000 tonnes of apples despite the crisis.
- The Mughal Road serves as a crucial alternative route.
- Severe losses are reported by local fruit growers due to rotting fruit.
- Highway disruptions have led to inflated prices for essential goods.
Srinagar, Sep 17 (NationPress) In light of the ongoing disruptions on the Srinagar-Jammu national highway, a total of 1200 trucks filled with fruit have successfully departed from Kashmir. Additionally, the Railways reported that approximately 2,000 tonnes of apples have been transported from the Valley.
Kashmir Divisional Commissioner Anshul Garg personally oversaw the movement of these 1200 apple-laden trucks utilizing the Mughal Road to alleviate the crisis impacting Kashmir's horticulture sector due to the highway disruptions that have persisted since the end of August.
A significant 50-60 metre stretch of the highway has collapsed near the Tharad Bridge in Udhampur, prompting continuous efforts from the border roads organization to either restore the affected area or create a feasible alternative.
Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah have convened to assess the restoration efforts.
Local fruit growers and traders have expressed concerns over severe losses due to fruit spoiling in trucks stranded on the highway for extended periods.
The estimated losses are in the range of crores of rupees. Amid the ongoing closure of the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, authorities confirmed on Wednesday that approximately 2,000 tonnes of apples have been shipped to external markets via the railway.
Railway officials stated that since the past week, 1,25,376 boxes of apples have been dispatched by freight train to Delhi.
“From Anantnag Railway Station, 87,137 boxes were sent, while 38,239 boxes were moved from Budgam Railway Station,” officials reported, noting that from Anantnag, 350 tonnes, 650 tonnes, and 376 tonnes of apples were already loaded and dispatched in different consignments.
From Budgam, an additional 600 tonnes have also been shipped. Last year, Kashmir produced 20.4 lakh metric tonnes, contributing 70 percent to the nation's total apple yield.
The ongoing highway disruptions have negatively impacted daily life in the Valley, making it increasingly difficult to acquire petroleum products like petrol, diesel, and LPG.
Petrol stations have begun displaying signs indicating they are out of stock, while LPG suppliers are reporting shortages. The prices of poultry products, including chickens and eggs, have surged, and vegetable prices are climbing daily.
Point of View
The situation in Kashmir reflects both the vulnerabilities and strengths of regional agriculture. While the disruptions pose significant challenges, the coordinated efforts to transport apples highlight the determination of local authorities and the resilience of the farmers. Such times call for national solidarity to support affected sectors, ensuring that the heritage of Kashmir's horticulture remains intact.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the disruption of the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway?
The disruption was caused by a significant portion of the highway collapsing near the Tharad Bridge in Udhampur.
How many trucks have successfully transported apples from Kashmir?
Approximately 1,200 trucks filled with apples have successfully moved out of Kashmir.
What alternative route is being used for transportation?
The Mughal Road is being utilized as an alternative route to transport fruit from Kashmir.
How much apple has been transported via the Railways?
The Railways reported that around 2,000 tonnes of apples have been transported from the Valley.
What impact has the disruption had on local prices?
The disruption has led to price increases in petroleum products, poultry, and vegetables in the region.
