SRINAGAR: In a tragic incident at the Shopian Fruit Mandi, Mohammad Rafiq, a 35-year-old truck driver from Bengaluru, Karnataka, was found dead in his vehicle early this morning. Preliminary investigations indicate that Rafiq succumbed to the severe cold while parked in the truck lot.
The truck, bearing registration number KA 07 B 4825, had arrived in Shopian two days ago. Rafiq was scheduled to load it with fruit for transport back to Karnataka today. His lifeless body was discovered by locals, prompting police to register a case and initiate an investigation. The body has been shifted to the mortuary for further legal procedures.
Jahangir Ahmad, President of the Transport Union Shopian, expressed deep sorrow over the loss. “We are heartbroken by this tragedy. The Transport Union will ensure that Rafiq’s body is transported to his family in Karnataka with dignity, and we will bear all the necessary expenses,” he stated.
Authorities have urged truck drivers and transport workers to take extra precautions against the harsh winter conditions, as the region has experienced a sudden drop in temperature. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks posed by extreme weather to those working in the area.
The news has cast a sombre mood over the bustling fruit mandi, with workers and traders mourning the untimely death of a fellow worker. Local officials have reiterated the importance of adequate winter preparedness for those operating in Kashmir’s cold climate. -(KL)
