Today, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo chaired a critical meeting to assess protocols for the smooth transportation of fruit consignments from the Kashmir Valley to markets beyond the Union Territory. This high-level gathering included key officials from various departments, aiming to ensure uninterrupted logistics for one of the region’s primary economic activities.
The meeting saw the participation of the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, along with officials such as the Secretary of the Transport Department, Inspector General of Traffic, Transport Commissioner, and representatives from the Agriculture Production Department. Their collective expertise directly informs the administration’s efforts to facilitate effective transportation frameworks.
During the session, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo took stock of the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) and its current operational capabilities. He prioritized critical discussions regarding the movement of fruit-laden trucks, stressing the need for the unhindered passage of essential commodities entering Kashmir from outside sources.
Stressing the urgency of the matter, Dulloo directed responsible departments to guarantee that no fruit truck should remain stranded on the highway, while emphasizing the importance of safe and priority passage for these transport vehicles. He also assessed the conditions for vehicles currently stranded on both ends of NH-44, insisting on swift clearance for all hindrances.
In a forward-looking discussion, the Chief Secretary encouraged the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, to analyze the potential for instituting rail freight services for the delivery of local horticultural produce to larger markets in cities like Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru. He noted that facilitating such transport would require close consultation with local fruit growers and coordination with the Divisional Railway Manager (DRM), Jammu.
According to the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, transportation services are currently sufficient and offered at fair rates. He reassured the Chief Secretary that fruit growers are not facing significant logistical challenges, which is crucial for ensuring steady market access for their seasonal produce.
The Secretary of the Transport Department, Avny Lavasa, highlighted that in case transport vehicles become limited, the J&K SRTC fleet stands ready to assist in facilitating the expedited evacuation of fruit produce from the Valley to various markets, enhancing support for local fruit cultivators.
Reaffirming the government’s dedication, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo stated that the administration remains committed to securing seamless transportation of horticultural produce, which is vital to the economic framework of the Kashmir Valley. He instructed all departments to engage in proactive actions to ensure the smooth movement of fruit consignments during the ongoing harvest season.
