Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo convened a high-level meeting today to assess measures for the efficient transportation of fruit consignments from the Kashmir Valley to markets across India. This urgent discussion involved key officials, including the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, the Secretary of the Transport Department, and the Inspector General of Traffic, among others.
During the meeting, Dulloo reviewed the current status of the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH-44), critical for the swift movement of fruit-laden trucks. He stressed the need for operational readiness and continual access for essential commodities flowing into Kashmir, particularly focusing on the reduction of logistics challenges faced by local growers.
The Chief Secretary mandated that no fruit truck should be stranded on the highway. He instructed respective departments to facilitate safe passage for these trucks through dedicated routes and expedited clearance efforts for any stranded vehicles along NH-44.
Exploring alternative long-distance transport options, Dulloo advised the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, to consider rail freight services. This option could significantly benefit local horticulturists by simplifying the shipping process to major markets such as Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru. He highlighted the importance of consulting with fruit growers and coordinating with the Divisional Railway Manager (DRM), Jammu, to assess this transport solution.
The Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, assured the Chief Secretary that current transportation facilities are adequate and economical, indicating that fruit growers are not facing significant logistical hurdles at this time.
Transport Secretary Avny Lavasa assured that should transportation vehicles become scarce, the J&K SRTC fleet will assist in ensuring the uninterrupted movement of fruit produce from the Valley to outside markets, offering full support to the local farming community.
Emphasizing the government’s commitment, Dulloo remarked that the administration is dedicated to facilitating the seamless transportation of horticultural produce, which serves as a crucial pillar of Kashmir’s economy. He directed all relevant departments to work in a synergetic manner and adopt proactive measures to ensure the smooth movement of fruit consignments throughout the ongoing harvest season.
