Srinagar, Nov 19 (KNT): Mutton dealers from Kashmir have expressed serious concern over what they describe as increasing harassment and extortion by private contractors along Punjab highways. The traders allege that livestock trucks are being forcibly stopped during transit and drivers are compelled to pay hefty amounts under the guise of cattle fare charges.
According to the dealers, the interference takes place despite the fact that they neither purchase livestock in Punjab nor engage in any trading activity within the state, using the route solely as a transit corridor. They said contractors halt trucks at several points, creating obstructions and pressurising drivers until they agree to pay. The amount demanded varies at each stop but remains substantial enough to raise operational costs and disrupt timely supply to Kashmir markets.
The mutton dealers said the pattern of obstruction has intensified in recent weeks, causing anxiety among truck drivers who cover long distances while transporting livestock. They claimed the practice has evolved into an organised system along specific stretches of the highway where drivers are routinely confronted and forced to comply.
The traders urged the governments of Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab to intervene immediately to ensure safe and unhindered movement of livestock vehicles. They warned that continued harassment could destabilise meat supply chains and further increase financial pressure on dealers already burdened by high procurement and transportation expenses.
They also appealed to police and regulatory authorities to identify and investigate the checkpoints where extortion is reportedly taking place. The dealers emphasised that strict accountability is essential to prevent further harassment and to restore confidence among livestock transporters using the route.
