Srinagar: The Kashmir Valley fruit growers cum dealers union has raised their voice over the decision on the operation of the Vande Bharat Express on the Katra-Srinagar route in place of a direct train service between Srinagar and Delhi. The union went on to say that the direct train to the national capital can be more fruitful for faster delivery of perishable horticulture products.
This facility would not only reduce the timings but also make the market accessibility easy for the farmers, improving their livelihoods. A huge disappointment can be seen on their faces due to the switch of the train’s route. Fruit union called it a setback for the valley’s horticulture industry.
The new Katra-Srinagar rail link has received a huge welcome, and it will be inaugurated soon from the Z-Morh tunnel. However, the union members have made it clear that the current arrangement is not going to solve the transportation issues of the valley’s horticulture sector. Horticulture plays a key role in the economy of the valley.
Besides this, the union underscored the dearth of goods trains for the movement of perishable items like fruits. They stressed that there should be proper train services for the transportation of the fresh produce and giving a shot in the arm to the horticulture sector.
In a statement, the union appealed to the lieutenant governor, chief minister, and chief secretary to advocate for a direct Vande Bharat Express between Srinagar and Delhi. This would not only give a boost to the horticulture sector but also improve the overall economic growth in the entire area. The union appealed for the proper infrastructure to support the horticulture industry in the valley so that they can compete in the domestic and global markets.
