Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, June 2: A severe hailstorm today hit several villages in south Kashmir’s Shopian district causing extensive damage to orchards and standing crops, particularly nearly ripe cherries and apples.
The worst-hit areas include Imamsahib, Nagbal, Handaw, Wadipora, Badavpora, Handev, Alishapora, Chitragam Kalan, and adjoining villages, where farmers reported devastating losses. In many places, the hail was so intense that even buds were damaged, raising concerns over next year’s harvest.
“This is a natural disaster beyond anyone’s control. As far as the administration’s role is concerned, we are committed to ensuring there is no delay in relief and mitigation. Our teams have visited several affected areas along with officials from the horticulture department,” Bilal Ahmad, Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Zainapora, said.
He confirmed that some areas have suffered nearly 80 percent crop damage. “We have already directed the collection of Aadhaar and bank account details from affected farmers to expedite compensation under SDRF norms,” he added.
He said the administration has begun distributing advisories on orchard management and urged farmers to follow recommended spraying practices without delay.
Meanwhile, locals have appealed to the Department of Horticulture to immediately dispatch assessment teams and provide necessary support to the farmers.
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