Srinagar, July 31, : Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader Iltija Mufti on Friday questioned the reported stoppage of trucks carrying Kashmiri apples at Qazigund, saying the disruption had added to the difficulties already being faced by apple growers.
Iltija said the horticulture sector was already grappling with numerous challenges and any interruption in the transportation of apple consignments would only aggravate the hardships of growers.
“Why are trucks carrying Kashmiri apples being stopped at Qazigund? Apple growers are already facing immense challenges. Such disruptions only add to their hardship and deserve an immediate explanation and resolution,” she said.
Iltija said she spoke to police officers regarding the issue and was informed that the movement of vehicles had been affected due to maintenance work.
Questioning the restrictions, she said if Amarnath Yatra buses and other private vehicles were being allowed to ply on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, there was no justification for preventing trucks carrying locally produced apples from moving.
She urged the authorities to ensure that the maintenance work is completed expeditiously and that the movement of fruit-laden trucks is facilitated without unnecessary delay to prevent losses to growers and traders.
Warning of agitation, Iltija said the PDP would stage a protest if fruit trucks were not allowed to ply on the highway by Saturday.
