Srinagar: First Dedicated Parcel Train Launched for Apple Transport
On Monday, Jammu and Kashmir’s Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha inaugurated the first dedicated parcel train from Budgam to New Delhi, which he described as the beginning of a “new era of trade and business for apple growers and traders in the Valley.”
Despite the launch, fruit mandis throughout Kashmir observed a complete shutdown in protest against the government’s failure to reopen the Srinagar-Jammu highway. This highway has sustained damage between Nashri and Udhampur following heavy rains on August 26-27, leaving approximately 5,000 fruit-laden vehicles stranded. Agriculture Minister Javed Dar labeled the situation as alarming, emphasizing that the train’s capacity is limited to around 180 metric tonnes and is still in its early stages. He reiterated, “Our priority will be to keep the Srinagar-Jammu highway open for traffic.”
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah asserted that if the Central government is unable to restore and maintain the highway, it should be transferred to local authorities. He has indicated plans to discuss the reopening of the road with Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari.
Lieutenant Governor Sinha noted that the train will operate seven days a week, transporting 23-24 tonnes of apples and other perishable goods each day. “This will provide a faster and more economical transportation mode, strengthen market linkages, and improve the lives and livelihoods of farmers,” he stated.
Bashir Ahmad Basheer, president of the Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers Union, expressed serious concern, mentioning that early varieties of apples, such as Gala, are already deteriorating due to the stalled vehicles, which have not advanced beyond Qazigund for the past eight days. He described the situation as a significant crisis.
In Sopore, home to Kashmir’s oldest fruit market, mandi representatives demanded that if the administration fails to restore the Srinagar-Jammu highway, control should be handed over to the military, which they believe could restore operations within a day.
Peoples Conference Chairman Sajad Lone criticized the Omar government for inaction, stating, “Inclement weather is not the fault of the government. But sitting like a mute spectator and doing nothing is criminal.” He urged the Chief Minister to collaborate with officers and stakeholders to devise a viable strategy.
Iltija Mufti, a representative from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), accused the government of neglecting this crucial issue.
