Optimistic over Centre’s relief package for J&K: Javed Dar

Baramulla, Sep 17: Minister for Agriculture Javed Dar on Wednesday said that the CM Omar Abdullah-led government is pushing hard for a special relief package for fruit growers who suffered immensely due to the closure of the Srinagar–Jammu highway following landslides.

While speaking to the media, the Agriculture Minister said that the recent natural disaster caused huge damage to property and claimed several lives. Besides, it severely hit the apple industry. He said the Government is in touch with the Centre and is hopeful that a special relief package will soon be announced for the affected people. “People affected by the natural disaster, as well as those associated with the apple industry, will be compensated. We are optimistic about the package,” Dar said.

The Minister also shared some positive news, stating that traffic movement has been restored on the Srinagar–Jammu highway.

“On Wednesday, around 2,400 stranded fruit trucks were allowed to move via Mughal Road and Ramban. The highway is now open, and traffic moved smoothly from Srinagar to Jammu. Hopefully, things will continue to improve,” said Javed Dar.