In recent days, apple prices have declined, affecting both traders and cultivators. Disruptions on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway in India, caused by landslides following a cloudburst, led to a backlog of fruit trucks at wholesale markets outside the region.
Mohammad Ashraf Wani, president of Fruit Mandi in Shopian, told Greater Kashmir that 10 to 15 kg apple cartons are currently selling for ₹150 to ₹200 (approximately $1.80 to $2.40) below normal rates. The simultaneous arrival of fruit-laden trucks has caused an oversupply, pushing prices down. "This sudden and simultaneous arrival created an oversupply in the market, outpacing demand and leading to a decline in prices. Farmers and traders suffered losses as a result," Wani explained. He expressed hope that the market would recover soon.
This season began on a positive note, with many cultivators starting sales earlier than usual. Still, around 6 million apple cartons—representing 30 to 40 per cent of the harvest—remain unsold in controlled-atmosphere (CA) storage facilities across Kashmir. An apple grower expressed optimism that the market would recover in the coming days, though they also voiced concern about rising temperatures. The grower emphasized the need for timely transportation to markets due to the lack of refrigerated trucks and highlighted the importance of keeping the Mughal Road open for fruit transport.
Farmers with produce stored in CA facilities are particularly hopeful that the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway remains accessible. Currently, Kashmir's CA storage capacity exceeds 500,000 metric tonnes. In recent years, growers have faced significant losses due to COVID-19 lockdowns and road closures for infrastructure work.
Source: Greater Kashmir
