Apple Demand Rises as CA Stores Open

After months of uncertainty and distress sales during the peak harvest season, demand for Kashmiri apples has begun to show a noticeable improvement with the gradual opening of Controlled Atmosphere (CA) storage facilities, raising hopes of better returns among growers across the Valley.

- Observer News Service

As per KNO, officials associated with the Horticulture Department and CA storage units said that for now, apples stored in the corridor spaces of CA units are being released into markets, while the main CA chambers have also started opening in a phased manner. These developments have already resulted in improved demand and comparatively better prices.

“In routine practice, apples kept in corridor spaces are stored under basic arrangements, where fans help circulate air and temperatures are maintained at a minimum level. These are not fully controlled conditions like the main CA chambers,” an official explained.