Srinagar, Sep 16: PDP leader Iltija Mufti on Tuesday met Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to highlight the severe crisis confronting the Union Territory’s apple industry due to the prolonged closure of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44).
The critical highway has remained shut for several weeks following heavy rains and flash floods, leaving fruit-laden trucks stranded and growers worried about significant losses. The situation has prompted protests by apple farmers and traders, who accused authorities of inaction.
“Called on Hon’ble L-G Manoj Sinha to apprise him of the severe crisis crippling Jammu and Kashmir’s apple industry owing to the shutdown of the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway,” Mufti posted on X.
During the meeting, the LG assured Mufti that efforts are underway to expedite the smooth movement of trucks along the highway to minimize further losses to growers.
The intervention comes as apple farmers in Kashmir continue to seek urgent government support to salvage the season amid the ongoing transport disruption.