Srinagar, Jul 21 (KNO): Improved cold storage infrastructure is proving to be a game changer for Kashmir's plum growers, enabling them to preserve fruit quality for longer periods, access distant markets and secure better prices for their produce.
Officials from the Horticulture Planning and Marketing Department told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that the limited shelf life of soft fruits such as plums and cherries had long restricted growers to nearby markets, often resulting in heavy post-harvest losses. However, the availability of modern cold storage facilities has significantly reduced wastage and opened new marketing opportunities across the country.
"Short shelf life was one of the biggest challenges for growers of soft fruits. Cold storage facilities have helped address this issue by preserving freshness and allowing traders to transport produce to far-off markets," a horticulture department official said.
Fruit exporters also acknowledged the positive impact of the improved storage network.
Basharat Ahmad, a fruit exporter from Srinagar, said that earlier, plums often spoiled before reaching distant destinations, forcing traders to sell quickly at lower prices.
"Now we are able to maintain the quality and freshness of the fruit even while transporting it to markets as far as Kolkata. This has expanded our market base, improved returns for growers and enhanced the reputation of Kashmiri produce," he said.
The department is working to further strengthen the cold storage network across Kashmir under various centrally sponsored schemes to reduce post-harvest losses and improve marketing infrastructure for horticultural produce.
Experts believe that with sustained investment in storage and supply chain infrastructure, Kashmir can diversify beyond its traditional apple industry and establish itself as a major supplier of premium soft fruits, particularly plums and cherries, to markets across India and abroad.
Irfan Ahmad a fruit trader at Fruit Mandi Shopian said that demand for Kashmiri plums has witnessed a significant rise this season, resulting in better prices for farmers.
"Growers are receiving encouraging returns for their produce. The improved demand is certainly helping, but the expansion of cold storage facilities has also played a crucial role in ensuring that farmers can market their fruit more efficiently and profitably," he said.
Growers and traders are hopeful that the continued expansion of cold storage infrastructure and improved market connectivity will make Kashmir's perishable fruit sector more competitive, profitable and sustainable in the coming years—(KNO)