Jammu, Dec 10: A delegation of the Kashmir Traders & Manufacturers Federation (KTMF), led by President Mohammad Yaseen Khan and accompanied by senior functionary Qazi Tauseef, today called on Hon’ble Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in Jammu to highlight the mounting challenges faced by the trading community across the Valley.
During the meeting, the KTMF leadership apprised the Chief Minister of the severe economic distress confronting traders, noting that the business sector is undergoing one of its most difficult phases. They pointed out that markets are witnessing a sharp drop in sales, while traders—particularly small and medium enterprises—are struggling with rising bank liabilities, high interest burdens, and inadequate working capital support from financial institutions. The delegation warned that without substantial and timely relief measures, many long-standing business establishments may be unable to survive the current financial strain.
KTMF also underscored the urgent need for modernization of decades-old traditional markets across Srinagar and other districts. They highlighted issues of poor infrastructure, lack of adequate parking, erratic power supply, and the absence of digital support systems, which collectively hinder business growth. The delegation urged the government to prioritize market redevelopment and infrastructure upgrades to boost commercial activity.
Traffic congestion in Srinagar and other urban centers was flagged as another major concern. KTMF noted that unregulated traffic and chronically congested routes have discouraged customer footfall and caused transportation delays, severely impacting trade movement and day-to-day commercial operations.
The delegation also raised alarm over the increasing frequency of fire incidents in commercial areas, which have led to repeated devastation and heavy losses. KTMF appealed for strengthened fire safety infrastructure and comprehensive preventive measures, especially in densely populated market zones.
Further, KTMF expressed concern about unregulated street vending and encroachments in key market corridors, stressing that these issues disrupt organised business zones, obstruct shopfronts, and disturb the overall market ecosystem. They called for a balanced, fair approach that protects livelihoods while ensuring orderly trade.
The federation urged the government to formulate a comprehensive business revival plan, incorporating financial relief, infrastructure development, and strict enforcement of regulations to address the growing challenges faced by the trading community.
Following the meeting, KTMF President Mohammad Yaseen Khan said, “Hon’ble Chief Minister Omar Abdullah gave us a patient hearing and assured that all genuine concerns raised by KTMF will be taken up for urgent redressal. He acknowledged the significant role played by KTMF in representing lakhs of traders and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working closely with us for Kashmir’s economic stability.” | Kashmir Pen
