Srinagar, August 6: Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani, on Thursday said the Jammu and Kashmir Government is committed to ensuring the uninterrupted transportation of fruit during the peak harvesting and marketing season, describing the horticulture sector as the backbone of the Union Territory's economy.

During an inspection of the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, Wani reviewed the arrangements for the movement of fruit-laden trucks and interacted with apple growers, transporters and officials to assess the challenges affecting the transportation of perishable produce.

He assured stakeholders that the government would take all necessary steps to protect the interests of the horticulture sector and facilitate the timely movement of fruit to markets across the country.

Emphasising the importance of horticulture to Jammu and Kashmir's economy, Wani said the administration would not allow any disruption to affect the sector and that the concerns raised by growers would be addressed on priority.

The inspection comes against the backdrop of recurring traffic disruptions on the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway caused by adverse weather conditions. Growers have expressed concern that delays in transportation could impact the quality and market value of apple consignments during the ongoing marketing season.