Apple production in Shimla district is projected to decline by 47.59% this season, with an estimated output of 2,30,989.98 metric tonnes, compared to 4,40,684 metric tonnes in 2025, according to Deputy Commissioner (DC) Shimla, Anupam Kashyap.
DC Chairs Preparatory Meeting for Apple Season
DC Kashyap chaired a meeting to discuss preparations for the upcoming apple season, focusing on transportation, traffic management, freight rates, control room establishment, and availability of workers and packaging material. He directed officers to ensure orchardists face no inconvenience and that transportation and marketing systems operate effectively.
Coordination Among Departments
The DC emphasized inter-departmental coordination to make the apple season successful. All Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs) will meet with apple growers, truck operators, and pickup unions to assess transport vehicle needs. Information on truck requirements from other districts and states should be shared with the DC office, which will arrange trucks if necessary. Adequate labour for apple plucking and transportation will also be ensured.
Freight Rate Committee and New Pricing Formula
A committee comprising the SDM, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), Public Works Department Executive Engineer (XEN), and an HRTC representative will determine freight rates. Transportation charges will be calculated per kilogram or tonne, not per box, taking into account road conditions, diesel prices, and cargo weight. Fixed rates will be displayed in control rooms, notice boards, and prominent locations.
Control Room Operations and Security Measures
The main control room, operated by SDM Theog in Fagu, will function until July 15, 2026, with staff from various departments deployed as needed. It will be equipped with telephones, faxes, and CCTV cameras. Adequate police force will be deployed, and apple crates will be counted only once at exit points and the main control room. Drivers and cleaners of transport vehicles will receive ID cards from the main control room, verified by police personnel.
Traffic Management Plan
A special route plan will be implemented to manage traffic smoothly. No trucks will be allowed to enter Shimla town; they will be diverted via the Dhalli-Mehli bypass. Apple-laden trolleys (vehicles with trailers) will be prohibited between Theog and Shimla from 5:00 am to 9:30 pm. Empty pickup vehicles will be routed via Bhekhalti. Only transport vehicles may park or wait on one side of the road between Dhalli and Fagu.
