Chief Secretary Directs Unhindered Transport of Essentials and Apple Produce via Rail & Roads
JAMMU: Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo today chaired a high-level meeting to review restoration works on the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH-44), assess supply chain management, and ensure uninterrupted movement of essential commodities across Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting was attended by senior officials from Home, PWD, FCS&CA, NHAI, divisional administrations, and traffic authorities.
The Chief Secretary was briefed on the present status of NH-44, where a stretch damaged by flash floods has been partially restored to single-lane traffic, with diversions through the Mughal Road. Stressing the urgency of full restoration, he directed that repair works be expedited and closely monitored at divisional and district levels, with daily progress reports on traffic flow and repairs.
Highlighting NH-44’s role as the lifeline of J&K, Dulloo instructed authorities to prioritize movement of essential supplies. Trucks carrying fruit, perishable food items, petroleum products, and LPG tankers must be cleared on priority to avoid shortages. He was informed that fuel and foodgrain stocks in the Valley remain sufficient and that fresh supplies are reaching since the highway’s partial reopening.
The Chief Secretary also reviewed arrangements for transporting apple produce through parcel trains from Kashmir to markets outside J&K. He directed the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, to ensure seamless movement of produce from all apple-growing areas and provide full support to growers and traders during the harvest season.
Reiterating the need for swift restoration of NH-44, Dulloo urged NHAI to mobilize maximum resources and complete works at the earliest. He asked Deputy Commissioners to personally supervise activities in their districts and maintain close coordination with traffic and divisional authorities for effective ground-level management.
While acknowledging alternate routes like the Mughal Road as temporary relief, the Chief Secretary emphasized that the full and early restoration of NH-44 remains the top priority.
