Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo chaired a high-level meeting today to review the transportation of fruit consignments from the Kashmir Valley to markets outside the Union Territory. The meeting aimed to ensure seamless logistics for horticultural produce, crucial to the region’s economy.
Attendees included the Divisional Commissioner of Kashmir, Secretary of the Transport Department, Inspector General of Traffic, and several other key officials. The gathering sought to address current challenges and enhance operational efficiency in transporting these essential goods.
During the discussions, Chief Secretary Dulloo examined the status of the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH-44). He focused on ensuring the highway operates at full capacity, crucial for the unimpeded movement of fruit-laden trucks from the Valley. Dulloo emphasized that no fruit truck should remain stranded on the highway, urging departments to facilitate safe and priority passage for these vehicles.
The Chief Secretary also reviewed situations concerning vehicles stranded on both sides of NH-44. He instructed officers to expedite the immediate clearance of these vehicles to enhance accessibility for local produce.
In exploring alternative modes of transportation, Dulloo urged the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, to investigate the possibility of introducing rail freight services. This initiative could enhance the movement of horticultural produce to major markets such as Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru. He stressed the importance of consulting fruit growers and cooperating with the Divisional Railway Manager (DRM), Jammu, to assess this viable option.
The Divisional Commissioner assured the Chief Secretary that adequate transportation facilities are accessible at reasonable rates, capable of supporting fruit growers effectively. Reports indicated that local growers are currently experiencing no significant logistical hurdles.
Avny Lavasa, Secretary of the Transport Department, added that in cases where transport vehicles are scarce, the Jammu and Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation (J&K SRTC) fleet will be mobilized to ensure smooth evacuation of fruit produce from the Valley to external markets. This support aims to reinforce the government’s dedication to assisting local farmers.
The Chief Secretary reiterated the government’s commitment to facilitating seamless transportation of horticultural produce, a vital aspect of Kashmir’s economy. He urged all departments to engage in close coordination and adopt proactive strategies to ensure the smooth movement of fruit consignments throughout the ongoing harvest season.
