The prolonged closure of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway has left Kashmir’s apple growers facing significant losses during the peak harvest season due to adverse weather conditions.
Srinagar: The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) has been closed for six consecutive days, primarily due to relentless rainfall and multiple landslides affecting the Ramban and Sarmoli areas. This extended closure has severely disrupted the transportation of apples during the critical harvest season, leaving hundreds of fruit-laden trucks stranded and causing considerable distress among local growers.
The horticulture sector, a crucial part of Kashmir’s economy, is experiencing substantial losses as the blockade hampers the supply chain. Growers are increasingly concerned about the potential spoilage of their perishable produce and are urging authorities to prioritize the movement of apple trucks to mitigate further damage.
Efforts are underway to clear the highway and restore connectivity, but continuous adverse weather conditions complicate these restoration efforts. The situation highlights the vulnerability of the region’s infrastructure to natural calamities and underscores the urgent need for resilient logistical solutions to support the agricultural community.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted continued rainfall across Jammu and Kashmir until September 5, prompting authorities to place all relevant agencies on high alert. In response to the situation, teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and the Indian Army have been deployed to address any emergencies that may arise. These agencies are on standby to assist residents in flood-prone and landslide-affected areas.
In the Jammu region, several districts have been severely impacted by heavy downpours, which have triggered landslides and flash floods. Numerous highways and internal roads remain blocked, isolating several villages from their respective district headquarters.
Rescue and clearance operations are actively underway in the affected areas, with officials closely monitoring the evolving situation. Residents living in vulnerable zones have been advised to remain cautious and adhere to advisories issued by local authorities.
The administration has assured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure safety and restore connectivity in the disrupted regions.
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