Apple Growers In Kashmir Call For Stronger Cold Storage Networks

The opening of Controlled Atmosphere (CA) cold stores across Kashmir has renewed hope for apple growers seeking better returns. At Lassipora in the Pulwama district, home to India's largest cluster of cold stores, growers say timely storage helped protect their produce. While many farmers suffered heavy losses after consignments were stranded on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway in September last year due to landslides and floods, those with access to cold storage were able to avoid such losses. Growers also say that these facilities, equipped with state-of-the-art technology, have strengthened their bargaining power in national markets.