PDP leader Rafique Rather Slams Govt for its Inaction
Baramulla, Sep 15: Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Baramulla Unit on Monday expressed serious concern over the worsening crisis in the Valley’s horticulture sector as hundreds of fruit-laden trucks continue to remain stranded for weeks on the Srinagar–Jammu National Highway.
Senior PDP Leader Mohd Rafique Rather said that the indifference of the National Conference-led government has left orchardists and fruit dealers helpless at a time when their produce is rotting and livelihoods are under grave threat.
“Asia’s biggest fruit mandi at Sopore is on strike, demanding safe passage for apple trucks stuck on the highway. Instead of responding with urgency, the government is busy with photo sessions and ribbon-cutting ceremonies,” Rather said.
He pointed out that North Kashmir, which is the backbone of the Valley’s horticulture economy, has 14 out of 16 MLAs from NC, including the Horticulture Minister from Sopore—the heart of the fruit bowl of Kashmir.
“Despite this overwhelming representation, nothing substantial is being done to rescue the sector. Their silence and inaction are unacceptable,” he added.
Calling horticulture the lifeline of Jammu and Kashmir’s economy, Rafique Rather stressed that the crisis is not merely about apples rotting in trucks but about lakhs of families facing economic devastation.
“As a representative of PDP from North Kashmir, I feel duty-bound to highlight this grave issue. Protecting the fruit industry is about protecting the future of countless households,” he said.
Expressing solidarity with the growers and Dealers, Rather added:
“We stand shoulder to shoulder with protesting fruit growers and assure them that PDP will not rest until their issues are resolved. The parcel train which has been started from Budgam should be extended to Baramulla so that North Kashmir fruit is saved.” Rather said.
The PDP leader urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to come out of the hibernation and immediately intervene, work out a credible strategy with growers, traders, and officials, and ensure unhindered movement of trucks before the situation spirals into wider unrest.
