Srinagar, Sept. 1 -- Although the highway partially reopened on Monday to clear stranded vehicles, the damage to perishable consignments is already extensive, leaving growers and traders deeply concerned.

Asia's second-largest fruit mandi at Sopore wore a gloomy look, with trade at a virtual standstill. Only a few six-tyre trucks were loaded compared to the usual 100-plus vehicles. "The industry may face losses of around Rs 200 crore if truck movement does not normalize," said Sopore Mandi president Fayaz Ahmed Malik, adding that the situation mirrors the 2022 highway disruption crisis.

Growers also reported a steep fall in rates. The American apple variety, previously sold at Rs 600 per box, is now fetching only Rs 400-450. "A truck wo...