Budgam, March 16, KNT: A sudden hailstorm struck Kanidajan and nearby villages in the Pakherpora area of central Kashmir’s Budgam district on Monday late afternoon, damaging standing crops and apple blossoms and raising concerns among farmers about potential losses to the upcoming harvest.
Locals said the hailstorm lasted only a short time but was intense enough to affect orchards and agricultural fields across parts of the area.
Farmers said the hailstones hit apple trees at a crucial stage of the season when blossoms are in full bloom, knocking down flowers in several orchards.
The apple blossom stage is considered critical for fruit development, and damage during this period can affect the size and quantity of the harvest later in the year.
Local farmers said they feared the hailstorm could reduce production if the damage proves widespread.
“Hailstones fell suddenly and many blossoms were knocked down. We are worried this may affect the apple crop this year,” a local orchard owner said.
Apart from apple orchards, some seasonal crops and vegetables grown in nearby fields were also reported to have been affected.
Budgam district, like several other parts of the Kashmir Valley, has a significant number of apple orchards that contribute to the region’s horticulture sector.
Affected farmers have urged the Horticulture Department and the local administration to conduct an immediate assessment of the damage in the affected villages.
They said officials should visit the orchards and agricultural fields to evaluate the losses and ensure that farmers receive timely assistance if the damage is confirmed. [KNT]
