Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo today took charge of a high-level meeting focused on enhancing the transportation of fruit consignments from the Kashmir Valley to markets beyond the Union Territory. Attendees included senior officials, such as the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir and heads of relevant departments.
The meeting addressed the current operational status of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44), crucial for transporting these goods. Dulloo methodically enquired about the flow of fruit-laden trucks and the seamless entry of essential commodities into Kashmir.
He issued strict instructions for ensuring that no fruit truck should remain stranded along the highway. The Chief Secretary stressed the need for safe and priority passage of these vehicles from the Valley to their destinations.
Additionally, Dulloo assessed the situation concerning vehicles stranded on both sides of NH-44 and directed for their immediate clearance.
To further assist in logistics, the Chief Secretary proposed the introduction of rail freight services to transport horticultural products to major markets, including Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru. He urged the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, to engage in discussions with fruit growers and consult the Divisional Railway Manager (DRM), Jammu, for implementation.
During the meeting, the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, reassured the Chief Secretary that adequate transportation facilities exist at reasonable rates, indicating that fruit growers are not currently facing significant logistical hurdles.
Secretary of the Transport Department, Avny Lavasa, stated that if any shortage of transport vehicles arises, the J&K SRTC fleet will be mobilized to guarantee the smooth evacuation of fruit produce, thereby fully supporting the local farmers.
Highlighting the administration’s firm commitment, Dulloo reiterated that the government is dedicated to ensuring seamless transportation of horticultural produce, a significant aspect of Kashmir’s economy. He urged all participating departments to maintain vigilant cooperation and implement proactive measures to facilitate the smooth movement of fruit consignments throughout the ongoing harvest season.
