Dealers report losses exceed Rs 15 Cr during partial week-long closure, over 90 sheep died in a single day, warn ‘major supply shortage’
Srinagar: The closure of the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway has led to an impending mutton shortage in the Kashmir Valley, with dealers warning that stocks may be completely exhausted by Tuesday or Wednesday. This crisis has already resulted in the postponement of various events, including weddings, highlighting the cultural significance of mutton in the region.
Mehraj-Ud-Din Ganai, General Secretary of the Mutton Dealers Association, expressed concern over the situation, stating that without timely supplies via the Mughal Road, the valley could face a total lack of mutton. Despite government assurances for the transportation of essential goods through the Mughal Road, trucks have been consistently halted at various checkpoints, causing significant financial losses for mutton dealers, estimated to exceed Rs 15 crore over the past week. Ganai urged the administration to take immediate action to ensure the smooth passage of vehicles. The ongoing issues are exacerbated by recent landslides and damage to the Srinagar-Jammu Highway due to heavy rains, which is currently undergoing restoration. The situation underscores the critical role of mutton in Kashmir’s food culture and the urgent need for government intervention to prevent a food crisis.
