In a statement, Mehbooba expressed deep concern over the growing distress among Kashmir’s fruit-growing community as repeated disruptions on the national highway, triggered by landslides and adverse weather, “continue to obstruct” the timely dispatch of horticultural produce to markets across the country. Apples and other fresh produce cannot remain stationary for days without affecting quality, market competitiveness and growers’ earnings,” she said. “Today, many growers are anxiously watching truckloads of their produce remain immobilised because the Valley’s road connectivity has been severely affected. She called for immediate steps to ensure that horticultural produce reaches markets without further delay, and that all safe alternatives, including the Mughal Road for suitable commercial vehicles, should be actively considered. Any prolonged disruption in the supply chain sends financial shockwaves across the rural economy, particularly during the peak marketing season, she asserted.