Orchards, crops hit as hailstorm strikes Budgam A sudden hailstorm struck parts of central Kashmir’s Budgam district on Monday afternoon, damaging apple blossoms and standing crops in several villages of the Pakherpora area. Residents reported that the storm hit Kanidajan and nearby villages unexpectedly, though it lasted only a short time. Despite its brief duration, the intensity of the hailstones caused significant damage to orchards and agricultural fields, raising concerns among farmers about potential losses to this year’s harvest. Local farmers described the hailstones as striking apple trees during a critical phase of the horticulture cycle, when blossoms are in full bloom. Orchard owners noted that the impact caused flowers to fall prematurely, which could jeopardize fruit formation in the coming months. One orchard owner from the area stated, “The hailstorm came suddenly and lasted only briefly, but it was strong enough to knock down many blossoms from the apple trees. This is a very sensitive stage for the crop, and we are worried the production may decline if the damage is significant.” The apple blossom stage is considered a crucial period for fruit development, as healthy blossoms are essential for proper pollination and fruit set. Damage during this phase can reduce the number of apples that develop later in the season and may lead to lower overall harvest yields. Beyond apple orchards, farmers also reported damage to seasonal crops and vegetables in nearby fields. Small patches of vegetable cultivation and early-season crops were affected by the hailstones in several areas. Budgam district, like much of the Kashmir Valley, is home to a large number of apple orchards and plays a vital role in the region’s horticulture economy.#apple_orchards #kashmir_valley #budgam_district #pakherpora_area #horticulture_department
Train to Pahalgam put on hold for now as J&K govt, MPs flag threat to apple orchards The governing National Conference said the halted proposals include the Bijbehara-Pahalgam railway link and the Pulwama-Shopian railway project. The issue was earlier raised by local farmers, legislators, including Anantnag-Poonch MP Mian Altaf and the opposition PDP leaders. Vaishnaw said there was a demand for three additional railway projects in the region, but these had been kept on hold for now due to the objections raised. #railway_link #National_Conference #Pahalgam_put #governing_National #MPs_flag #flag_threat #apple_orchards #halted_proposals #proposals_include #Bijbehara-Pahalgam_railway
