The fruit economy in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir is suffering another severe blow. Officials and traders blame India’s economic assault on Kashmir for massive financial losses.
The Srinagar–Jammu National Highway (NH-44) remains blocked during peak harvest season. This blockade stranded hundreds of trucks carrying apples and pears. Consequently, farmers face rotting produce, collapsing prices, and halted markets.
Growers Count Heavy Losses
Fayaz Ahmad Malik, President of Sopore Fruit Mandi, said delays have already caused losses above Rs200 crore. He warned the figure may reach Rs400 crore if the road stays closed.
Meanwhile, Bashir Ahmad Basheer, Chairman of the Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers Union, confirmed that nearly 800 trucks remain stuck. He stressed that apples and pears cannot survive prolonged delays without proper cold storage.
Each truck carries fruit worth Rs5–10 lakh. With 800–1,200 trucks stranded, the direct losses now range from Rs40 crore to Rs120 crore. Traders estimate overall losses already exceed Rs400 crore when indirect costs are included.
Supply Chains Collapse
The Sopore Fruit Mandi, Kashmir’s largest fruit hub, suspended operations. As a result, growers lost their only platform to sell produce. Supply chains collapsed nationwide, leaving farmers helpless.
Traders accused New Delhi of ignoring repeated crises. They highlighted that NH-44 remains vulnerable every year. Yet, authorities have failed to build alternate routes or introduce modern storage systems.
Although the Mughal Road could provide relief, the government restricts heavy trucks. Larger ten- and twelve-tyre carriers, vital for bulk transport, are not permitted. Authorities have also ignored calls for refrigerated trains and cold-chain facilities.
Deliberate Neglect Alleged
Economists insist this crisis is not accidental. They argue that India’s economic assault on Kashmir represents deliberate economic strangulation. With horticulture supporting nearly 70% of households, this blockade threatens the Valley’s lifeline.
Traders claim New Delhi uses economic pressure as a weapon against Kashmiris demanding self-determination. Growers urged immediate action: reopen NH-44 for trucks, allow heavy vehicles on Mughal Road, and expand cold-storage networks.
Without urgent measures, Kashmir’s fruit industry will continue to collapse under repeated blockades and billions in annual losses.
