Srinagar: A delegation of the Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers Cum Dealers Union, led by its Chairman Bashir Ahmad Basheer, called on Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday to discuss issues concerning fruit growers and traders from the Valley.
The delegation conveyed its gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Lieutenant Governor for the launch of the new parcel train service from Budgam to Adarsh Nagar, New Delhi, which they said would provide a major boost to the horticulture sector.
During the meeting, the Union raised several concerns, including the smooth movement of fruit-laden trucks on the Srinagar–Jammu National Highway (NH-44) and permission for 10-tyre trucks on the Mughal Road to ease transportation of perishable goods.
Responding to the demands, the Lieutenant Governor assured the delegation that stranded fruit trucks on NH-44 would be cleared on priority and that men and machinery have already been deployed to ensure full restoration of traffic. He further informed that railway freight terminals will be set up in different parts of the Valley to facilitate growers and traders.
Dr. Mandeep K. Bhandari, Principal Secretary to the Lieutenant Governor, was also present during the meeting.
The fruit industry, a key sector of Kashmir’s economy, has been facing serious challenges due to prolonged highway blockades and transport disruptions in recent weeks.
