Srinagar, Mar 26, : With Eid-ul-Fitr approaching, the supply of livestock to Kashmir may face a major disruption as trucks carrying animals from outside states are being halted for long hours on the Srinagar-Jammu Highway, raising concerns of a possible mutton shortage in the Valley.
General Secretary of All Kashmir Wholesale Mutton Dealers Union, Mehraj Ahmed Ganai, has appealed to the authorities, particularly the Superintendent of Police (SP) Traffic Highway, to ensure hassle-free movement of livestock trucks during these crucial days.
He warned that unnecessary delays and one-way traffic restrictions on the highway are hindering the smooth transportation of livestock, which could directly impact the availability of mutton in Kashmir.
The trucks carrying livestock are being stopped for hours at multiple points, which is affecting the timely delivery of animals to the Valley.
Given the increased demand for mutton ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr, such disruptions can cause severe inconvenience to consumers,” Ganai said.
He emphasized that the Srinagar-Jammu Highway serves as the lifeline for Kashmir’s meat supply, and authorities must take immediate steps to ensure the uninterrupted movement of livestock trucks.
Eid-ul-Fitr is just days away, and people across Kashmir rely heavily on mutton during the festive celebrations.
Any disruption in supply can cause unnecessary panic and price hikes.
We urge the administration to intervene immediately and ensure that livestock trucks are not subjected to prolonged halts,” Mehraj Ganai added.
Mutton is a staple part of Kashmiri cuisine and holds special importance during Eid celebrations.
Any disruption in its supply chain not only affects consumers but also butchers, traders, and livestock transporters who depend on this trade for their livelihood.
All Kashmir Wholesale Mutton Dealers Union urged the authorities to issue clear instructions to traffic officials and set up dedicated corridors for livestock transportation, especially in the run-up to Eid, to prevent unnecessary delays. [KNT]
