Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo chaired a high-level meeting today to review logistics for the smooth movement of fruit consignments from the Kashmir Valley to markets outside Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting aimed to ensure that the region’s prized agricultural products reach consumers without delay.
Officials present at the meeting included the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Secretary of the Transport Department, Inspector General of Traffic, and other key stakeholders involved in the transportation chain. This significant gathering sought to address ongoing challenges in the movement of agricultural products.
The Chief Secretary examined the current operational status of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44), the primary route for transporting goods from the Valley. He inquired specifically about fruit-laden trucks and the unobstructed movement of essential supplies entering Kashmir from other regions.
Dulloo emphasized that no fruit truck should remain stranded on the highway. To that end, he instructed relevant departments to facilitate the safe and priority passage of these trucks, ensuring they can reach their destinations efficiently.
Additionally, the Chief Secretary assessed the situation concerning vehicles stalled on both sides of NH-44 and called for their immediate clearance. His proactive approach highlighted the administration’s priority of supporting local farmers and ensuring their products reach markets promptly.
As part of exploring alternative transportation methods, Dulloo advised the Divisional Commissioner of Kashmir to investigate the feasibility of introducing rail freight services. This initiative would aim to transport horticultural produce to major markets, including Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru. He encouraged consultations with fruit growers and cooperation with the Divisional Railway Manager (DRM), Jammu, to assess this potential route effectively.
During the meeting, the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, updated the Chief Secretary on the availability of adequate transportation facilities, emphasizing that fruit growers are not currently facing major logistical difficulties. This insight was crucial in demonstrating that the existing infrastructure is capable of supporting the ongoing harvest.
Avny Lavasa, the Secretary of the Transport Department, reassured stakeholders that the J&K SRTC fleet would be mobilized in case of any transport vehicle shortages. His commitment to ensuring the smooth evacuation of fruit produce from the Valley illustrates the government’s dedication to aiding local farmers.
The Chief Secretary reiterated the administration’s commitment to facilitating seamless transportation of horticultural produce, which remains a key pillar of Kashmir’s economy. He directed all departments to collaborate closely and implement proactive measures to ensure the uninterrupted movement of fruit consignments throughout the ongoing harvest season.
This meeting marks a significant step in securing economic stability for Kashmir’s agricultural sector. As the region continues to recover from various challenges, the government’s commitment to enhancing transportation logistics plays a pivotal role in supporting local farmers and boosting the economy.
