Fruit & Vegetable Market, Parimpora, Srinagar
The Parimpora Fruit and Vegetable Market, situated on the outskirts of Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, has been a pivotal hub in the region’s horticultural landscape since its establishment in 1982 by then Chief Minister Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah . Spanning approximately 45 kanals (about 5.6 acres), the market has evolved into a second-order market center with a centrality score of 327.2, underscoring its significant role in the distribution network of the Kashmir Valley.
Functioning as a crucial node in the supply chain, Parimpora Mandi caters to a vast trade area of approximately 27 square kilometers, facilitating the movement of fruits and vegetables across the region . The market witnesses a daily influx of produce, with hundreds of trucks transporting goods to and from the facility. However, challenges such as limited operational hours, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when the market functioned for only four hours daily, have impacted its efficiency and the livelihoods dependent on it.
In response to these challenges, the government has initiated modernization efforts to enhance the market’s infrastructure. Plans include the construction of a 5,000 metric ton cold storage facility at an estimated cost of ₹22 crore, along with the development of a guest house and other amenities to support traders and stakeholders . These upgrades aim to bolster the market’s capacity to handle perishable goods, reduce post-harvest losses, and improve overall operational efficiency.
Despite these advancements, the Parimpora Mandi faces ongoing issues such as inadequate drainage systems, insufficient electric transformers, and the need for better waste management solutions . Addressing these concerns is vital to ensure the market’s sustainability and its continued contribution to the region’s economy.
In summary, the Parimpora Fruit and Vegetable Market stands as a testament to the region’s rich horticultural heritage. With concerted efforts towards modernization and infrastructure development, it holds the potential to further solidify its position as a central hub in Jammu and Kashmir’s agricultural trade network.