Fruit traders cry foul over poor-quality macadamisation in Sopore Mandi

Sopore, July 2: Fruit growers and traders at Asia's second-largest fruit mandi in Sopore have raised serious concerns over the alleged use of substandard materials in the ongoing macadamisation work inside the market premises.

Accusing contractors of compromising on quality despite significant funds being allocated by the government, traders claimed that the blacktopping is being done without following proper procedures. “They are just spreading the material on dusty roads without proper groundwork. It doesn’t last more than a few weeks,” said one trader, demanding a thorough probe into the matter.

Traders further alleged that low-grade bitumen is being used in violation of standard guidelines, and some portions of the roads are already showing early signs of damage. “This points towards a possible nexus between the contractors and concerned officials,” said another trader, expressing disappointment over the administration’s inaction despite repeated pleas.

They appealed to the district administration to intervene immediately and ensure proper macadamization of the mandi roads to prevent further inconvenience to thousands of growers and buyers who visit the mandi daily.

When contacted, Executive Engineer R&B Sopore Fayaz Ahmad Wani said the department will inspect the site and take strict legal action against the concerned contractor and the material supplier if the use of substandard material is confirmed.