Srinagar, Sep 10 (KNO): Apple growers in Kashmir are grappling with heavy losses as the continuous closure of the Srinagar–Jammu National Highway (NH-44) has forced them to divert their produce through the Mughal Road, where freight costs have skyrocketed and transport availability is scarce.
Speaking to news agency Kashmir News Observer (KNO), the growers said that while authorities have permitted six-tyre vehicles on the Mughal Road, their numbers are too few to meet the demand. The limited availability has pushed freight rates to unprecedented levels, leaving orchardists frustrated and anxious about their livelihoods.
“Earlier, we used to pay Rs 50 to Rs 60 per apple box when transporting via NH-44. Now, on the Mughal Road, we are charged around Rs 200 per box. This is simply unbearable,” said Abdul Majid, an orchardist from Shopian. “The margins in apple farming are already very low. With freight charges tripling, we are running into losses that we may never recover.”
The prolonged closure has also disrupted grading and marketing strategies. Growers said that currently, they mostly send second-grade produce of traditional varieties such as Kulu and Delicious. “The money we are receiving in outside markets is not even covering the freight charges. Most people have delayed picking up first-grade apples because we cannot afford to take the risk of them rotting in transit,” said Bashir Ahmad, a grower from Pulwama.
Many orchardists fear that if the situation persists, Kashmir’s horticulture sector—considered the backbone of the valley’s economy—will face irreparable setbacks this season. The industry has already been under strain due to climate change, untimely rains, cheaper imports, and rising input costs.
“The government must step in without delay. Either ensure the immediate restoration of smooth traffic on NH-44 or provide adequate transport through Mughal Road at fair rates,” said Ghulam Rasool, a grower from Kulgam. “Otherwise, our year-long hard work will go in vain.”
Fruit growers’ associations have warned of a deepening crisis if no action is taken. They have appealed to the administration to treat the issue as an economic emergency, as thousands of families in Kashmir directly depend on apple farming for their livelihood. (KNO)