Roads to be cleared soon in apple growing areas: Bragta

Shimla, Aug 18 (UNI) Himachal Pradesh Horticulture Minister Narender Bragta today said to facilitate transportation of apples to markets, all National Highways would be opened immediately by clearing blockages caused due to landslides in the apple growing areas.

''Incessant rains have disrupted the traffic due to which the apples are not reaching the market on time. Efforts are on war footing to restore traffic,'' Mr Bragta said, while addressing a meeting here.

He said about 80 JCB had been pressed into service for clearing the roads in Shimla district.

Mr Bragta said effective steps were being taken to tackle damages caused to apple during this rainy season. He said 277 MT pesticides had been distributed to the horticulturists by the Horticulture Department, besides, awareness camps would be held in Mandi, Kullu and Shimla districts to generate awareness about scab and other diseases.

He said scientists of Horticulture and Forestry University and the Horticulture Department would provide horticulturists needed assistance.

Mr Bragta said a cell had been set up in his office to monitor the situation and regular information was being collected in order to speed up the relief works.

He directed the officers of PWD and Transport Department to ensure proper maintenance of roads and traffic in the apple growing areas.

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