Srinagar, November 20 — Apple growers across Kashmir continue to await government compensation after suffering massive losses during the August floods and prolonged closure of the Srinagar–Jammu National Highway. The Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers Cum Dealers Union has estimated damages of nearly ₹2,000 crore, with thousands of trucks stranded and consignments rotting during peak harvest season.
Growers say the crisis has crippled the region’s horticulture economy, forcing many to sell produce at throwaway prices and leaving families in debt. They have appealed to the administration for an immediate relief package, crop insurance coverage, and loan waivers to safeguard livelihoods.
Stakeholders have also urged the government to expand cold storage facilities and improve transport infrastructure to prevent similar losses in the future. Despite repeated appeals, no comprehensive compensation package has yet been announced, raising concerns about the survival of Kashmir’s apple industry.
The growers stressed that timely intervention is critical to restore confidence and protect one of the Valley’s most vital economic sectors.
