Over 1,200 apple trucks cleared via Mughal Road since yesterday, says Div Com Kashmir

Shopian, Sep 16: Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Ansul Garg, on Tuesday said that apple-laden trucks are being cleared through the Mughal Road to ease the crisis caused by the prolonged closure of the Srinagar–Jammu highway for heavy motor vehicles.

Speaking to reporters after interacting with fruit growers in South Kashmir’s Shopian district, Garg said that since yesterday more than 1200 stranded trucks carrying fruit have successfully moved on the Mughal Road. He explained that traffic on the route is being regulated in a phased manner, with an “up and down” system followed on alternate days.

He added that efforts are underway to restore the Srinagar–Jammu highway for the movement of six and eight-tyre trucks, which remain barred due to landslides and road damage. “The focus is to make the highway motorable and viable for larger trucks at the earliest,” he said.

The Divisional Commissioner also stressed that authorities are prioritising the entry of stranded vehicles carrying essential supplies including petrol, LPG and vegetables into the Valley. Shortages of fuel and rising costs of perishables have triggered public concern in recent days.

Acknowledging that fruit growers have already suffered heavy losses due to the disruption, Garg said the issue is under active consideration. “We understand the concerns of orchardists. A policy decision will be taken to address the losses faced by fruit growers,” he assured.

The prolonged disruption of traffic on NH-44 has left the horticulture sector in deep distress, with thousands of fruit-laden trucks stranded for days. Officials hope that with combined use of Mughal Road and ongoing restoration on the highway, relief will gradually reach growers and consumers alike. [KNT]