Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo today convened a high-level meeting to assess measures for the smooth transportation of fruit consignments from the Kashmir Valley to markets outside the Union Territory. The meeting, held in Srinagar, included key officials from various departments to discuss logistical challenges and strategies to enhance the flow of agricultural produce.
The Chief Secretary met with the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Secretary of the Transport Department, Inspector General of Traffic, and the Transport Commissioner, among others. Their collective goal focused on ensuring that fruit-laden trucks travel without delays and that essential commodities can enter Kashmir without barriers.
Dulloo reported that he had taken detailed stock of the status of the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH-44). He emphasized the importance of restoring the highway to full operational capacity, as it serves as the main artery for transporting goods in and out of the region. He specifically enquired about the movement of fruit-laden trucks, indicating no truck should remain stranded on the highway during the critical harvest period.
He instructed all concerned departments to facilitate a safe and priority passage for fruit trucks to ensure timely delivery to markets. Additionally, Dulloo reviewed the situation concerning vehicles stranded on both sides of NH-44, issuing directives for their immediate clearance to alleviate traffic congestion.
Furthermore, the Chief Secretary proposed exploring long-distance transportation options, advising the Divisional Commissioner to investigate the viability of introducing rail freight services. This initiative aims to transport horticultural produce to major markets, including Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru. He suggested forming a consultation framework with fruit growers and working closely with the Divisional Railway Manager (DRM), Jammu, to facilitate this transition.
The Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, assured the Chief Secretary that adequate transportation facilities are currently available at reasonable rates, and fruit growers face minimal logistical hurdles. This feedback underscores the administration’s effectiveness in addressing the needs of the agricultural sector.
In response to potential transportation challenges, Secretary of the Transport Department, Avny Lavasa, stated that the J&K SRTC fleet is prepared to intervene and ensure the quick evacuation of fruit produce if any shortages in transport vehicles arise. The government remains committed to supporting local fruit growers crucial to the region’s economy.
Reiterating the administration’s dedication, Chief Secretary Dulloo noted that seamless transportation of horticultural produce is vital for Kashmir’s economy. He mandated all departments involved to maintain close coordination and adopt a proactive approach in facilitating the smooth movement of fruit consignments during this critical harvest season.
Effective transportation of fruit consignments from the Kashmir Valley plays a pivotal role in sustaining the livelihood of thousands of farmers in the region. With government efforts focused on logistical enhancements, officials aim to maximize the efficiency and reach of Kashmiri fruits, ensuring their availability in distant markets and benefiting the local economy.
