Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo today chaired a high-level meeting in Srinagar to evaluate the transportation logistics of fruit consignments from the Kashmir Valley to markets outside the Union Territory. This meeting involved key stakeholders including the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Secretary of the Transport Department, and other relevant officials.
Dulloo emphasized the urgent need to assess the current status of the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH-44), focusing on its restoration to full operational capacity. In his remarks, he sought detailed reports on the movement of fruit-laden trucks from the Valley and the unobstructed passage of essential commodities into Kashmir.
The Chief Secretary instructed officials that no fruit truck should remain stranded along the highway, highlighting the necessity for safe and priority passage of these vehicles. He requested immediate clearance of all vehicles stranded on either side of NH-44, ensuring that logistical issues do not disrupt the harvest.
Dulloo further proposed a strategic evaluation of alternatives for long-distance transportation, recommending that the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, explore the viability of introducing rail freight services for transporting horticultural products to major markets such as Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru. He stressed the importance of engaging with local fruit growers and coordinating with the Divisional Railway Manager (DRM), Jammu, to explore this option.
According to the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, transportation facilities are currently sufficient, operating at reasonable rates, meaning fruit growers are not facing significant logistical hurdles. This assurance indicates that the administration has put appropriate measures in place for the ongoing harvest season.
Avny Lavasa, Secretary of the Transport Department, reiterated the commitment to facilitate logistics by deploying the J&K SRTC fleet. This fleet will be mobilized to address any potential shortages of transport vehicles, ensuring the timely and efficient evacuation of fruit produce from the Valley to exterior markets.
This meeting served as a reminder of the government’s dedication to ensuring seamless transportation of horticultural produce, a vital component of Kashmir’s economy. The Chief Secretary directed all participating departments to maintain close coordination and adopt proactive measures, bolstering the smooth movement of fruit consignments throughout the harvest season.
