Hailstorm Ravages Crops, Apple Blossoms in Central Kashmir SRINAGAR: 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 reported that the storm, though brief, was intense enough to impact orchards and agricultural fields across the region. Farmers described the hailstones as hitting apple trees at a critical stage of the season when blossoms were in full bloom, causing significant damage to flowers in several orchards. The apple blossom phase is vital for fruit development, and harm during this period could affect the size and quantity of the harvest later in the year. Local farmers expressed fears that widespread damage could reduce production if the storm’s impact proves extensive. “Hailstones fell suddenly, and many blossoms were knocked down. We are worried this may affect the apple crop this year,” said a local orchard owner. In addition to apple orchards, some seasonal crops and vegetables grown in nearby fields were also reported to have been damaged. Budgam district, like other parts of the Kashmir Valley, is home to numerous apple orchards that play a key role in the region’s horticulture sector. Affected farmers have called on the Horticulture Department and local authorities to conduct an immediate assessment of the damage in the impacted villages. They urged officials to visit the orchards and fields to evaluate the losses and ensure farmers receive timely support if the damage is confirmed.#kashmir_valley #budgam_district #pakherpora_area #horticulture_department #hailstorm
