Kashmir mutton dealers halt livestock supply over transit issues

Srinagar, Jul 24: The Mutton Dealers Association of Kashmir has suspended the transportation of livestock from outside states, citing repeated harassment and losses during transit, particularly at checkpoints in Punjab.

The association expressed regret to the public, especially families preparing for weddings, but said the situation had become unsustainable. “Our trucks are routinely stopped at Shambu and Madhopur checkpoints. Drivers are forced to pay hefty sums just to pass. Today alone, over 50 sheep died due to delays and heat,” said General Secretary Mehrajuddin Ganaie.

He said multiple appeals to officials, including J\&K’s Food and Supplies Minister Satish Sharma, have failed to bring relief. “We are not on strike—this is a compelled decision,” Ganaie said, urging Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to dispatch a team to Punjab to assess the situation. Suppliers from Rajasthan, Sikar, Firozpur, Delhi, and Ambala have been informed and have extended support. “This is a shared crisis. Immediate action is needed,” he added.

Recalling a similar episode in 2016 that was resolved through direct government intervention, Ganaie called for a long-term solution and a dedicated monitoring mechanism to ensure smooth livestock movement, especially during peak seasons.

“If this continues, we may be forced to halt operations indefinitely. The ball is now in the government’s court,” he warned.