SRINAGAR: The Kashmir Mutton Dealers Association (KMDA) has announced the immediate suspension of fresh livestock imports into Jammu and Kashmir, urging the public to reconsider plans for events in the coming weeks. The decision stems from ongoing disputes over what traders describe as excessive taxation and harassment faced by transporters in Punjab.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the association has declared that no vehicles carrying livestock will be loaded for the Valley until authorities resolve long-standing transportation issues. This move by traders from major livestock markets supplying Kashmir signals a significant potential disruption to mutton availability.
Mehraj-ud-Din, General Secretary of the KMDA, stated at a press conference in Srinagar that traders have collectively decided not to dispatch any fresh livestock-laden vehicles to Jammu and Kashmir. He explained that the decision could directly impact the availability of mutton during the upcoming marriage season, engagement ceremonies, and Nazar-o-Niyaz gatherings if the impasse persists.
“We appeal to people who have fixed marriage dates or planned major functions after Muharram to take the situation into account and make necessary adjustments. Traders will not be in a position to guarantee supplies if fresh livestock movement remains suspended,” Mehraj-ud-Din cautioned.
The association indicated that while existing stocks within the Valley might suffice for a few days, and efforts would be made to ensure availability during Muharram, a prolonged halt in imports could lead to severe shortages thereafter. “We usually have stock availability for two to three days. We will try to manage supplies during Muharram, but if fresh vehicles do not arrive, the situation after that could become difficult,” he added.
Allegations from KMDA suggest that livestock transporters continue to endure harassment, prolonged stoppages, and undue collections at checkpoints in Punjab. These issues, according to the association, significantly escalate transportation costs and result in substantial losses for traders.
Traders report being compelled to pay between Rs 20,000 and Rs 30,000 per vehicle, with livestock carriers allegedly being detained for extended periods during transit. “When vehicles carrying livestock are stopped for two to four hours in temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, livestock mortality increases and traders suffer heavy losses. We are being forced to bear additional costs despite repeated requests for intervention,” Mehraj-ud-Din stated.
The KMDA has also expressed dissatisfaction with the Jammu and Kashmir administration, accusing it of failing to secure a resolution despite numerous representations made over the past year. “We are not seeking any relief or favour. We are seeking justice. We have approached every authority, travelled to Punjab several times and raised the issue repeatedly, but no concrete solution has emerged so far,” Mehraj-ud-Din said.
In an effort to seek intervention, the association has engaged with political leaders and other stakeholders in recent days. However, KMDA maintained that the suspension of fresh imports will continue until effective action is taken to address their concerns. The association further reiterated that no fresh livestock vehicle will be loaded for Jammu and Kashmir from any market until the government effectively addresses the matter with Punjab authorities and ensures smooth transportation of animals into the Valley.
The Chenab Times News Desk