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2d ago

Kashmir Fruit Trucks Stalled for 15th Day as Landslides Shut NH-44

Growers demand a Sopore rail link, citing inadequate stopgaps.

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As the frequent disruption of Jammu-Srinagar National highway-44 has caused tremendous losses to fruit industry this year, the growers on Saturday held protests at different mandies asking the government to streamline the transportation of fruit on the highway. (Representational image)

Overview

  • Growers and traders staged protests at Sopore, Kupwara and Kulgam, calling for priority passage for fruit-laden vehicles.
  • Industry and grower loss estimates vary widely, with reports ranging from roughly ₹200–400 crore to claims exceeding ₹500 crore and even ₹1,000 crore.
  • Indian Railways has begun daily parcel service from Budgam to Delhi, with the first consignments arriving Friday and more cargo planned from September 15.
  • Mandis and grower groups want the rail service extended to Sopore and Baramulla to connect Asia’s major fruit market directly to outbound trains.
  • The Mughal Road is open only to six-tyre vehicles and traders are seeking permission for larger trucks, while some mandis plan brief trading suspensions to curb spoilage.