No inter-states passes needed for muskmelon traders

Tribune News Service

Jalandhar, May 13

With muskmelon farmers facing problems in selling their produce amid the lockdown, the state government has transportation of the produce from one state to another without any pass.

The order came after the farmers had sought relief, especially regarding relaxation on movement of buyers and traders, from the government.

Deputy Director, Horticulture, Naresh Kumar said, “We have got orders from Additional Chief Secretary Vishwajeet Khanna to ensure that there is a hassle-free movement of muskmelon traders from Rajasthan, Haryana and other states. We have shared the order with the farmers and asked to pass these to prospective buyers for free entry. In addition, we have also been asked to help the traders get passes from the administration, if they insist on it.”

In another step, market committee officials have also decided to divide the main Roopewal village mandi (in Shahkot) into four big venues so as to reduce rush and maintain social distancing. “This year, we have decided to set up four mandis instead of one. Besides Roopewal, there will be three more mandis in nearby locations, including Seechewal, Kolar villages and Malsian town,” said Kumar, adding that he along with Assistant Directors Vipin Pathania and Bhajan Singh Saini had visited farmers to know about their problems and resolve other marketing issues.