Srinagar, Aug 7: Baramulla MP Er. Rashid on Friday called on Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari and demanded a dedicated Green Corridor for fruit-laden trucks on National Highway-44, citing heavy losses to horticulturists due to traffic disruptions.
In a statement issued by AIP chief spokesperson Inam Un Nabi, the MP said repeated curbs at Qazigund, Banihal and other regulated stretches were delaying transportation of perishable produce, affecting fruit quality and market prices.
Stating that horticulture supports nearly seven lakh families in Jammu and Kashmir, Mr. Rashid urged the Minister to ensure priority movement of fruit trucks and set up a coordination mechanism involving NHAI, traffic police, civil administration and horticulture department.
The MP also raised the alignment of NH-701A (Magam–Beerwah–Arizal–Doodhpathri Highway) and requested retention and upgradation of the existing BRO alignment instead of a new bypass, citing lower land acquisition and cost benefits. He said the route enjoys local support and would improve connectivity to Beerwah, Doodhpathri and Yousmarg.
He also sought expedited development of the 8-km Paharthan-Kralnewah road via Chotribaal.
Gadkari gave a patient hearing and assured sympathetic examination of the issues, the statement added.
The AIP said it would continue to raise public welfare matters through institutional channels.
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