Srinagar, Sept. 23 -- Kashmir's apple industry, a major contributor to the region's economy, is facing mounting pressure due to the lack of modern cold storage facilities, inefficient transport systems, and the absence of a clear export and pricing policy. As thousands of metric tons of apples pour in from orchards during peak harvest, growers are struggling to preserve and market their produce.

The region produces nearly 10 lakh metric tons of A-grade apples annually. However, most of this high-quality produce lacks access to Controlled Atmosphere (CA) storage units. Meanwhile, C-grade apples, which form a large portion of the harvest, often go to waste due to the absence of fruit processing units.

Growers say the situation worsens eve...