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Hailstorm damages orchards in Shopian, Kulgam; official assessment underway

  • Younus Rashid By Younus Rashid
  • Comments 0
  • 08 Apr 2026

Minister Itoo visits affected areas, terms losses ‘severe’

Shopian/Kulgam, Apr 07: Orchards across parts of Shopian and Kulgam districts suffered damage after a hailstorm struck several areas on Monday evening, officials said, with assessments underway to ascertain the extent of losses and advisories issued to farmers to prevent further damage.

In Shopian, Chief Horticulture Officer Mohammad Muneer said the hailstorm occurred at around 4:30 pm, affecting areas including Modhjan, Feeripora, Kanjullar, and Pudsoo. “The hailstorm lasted for about 10 to 15 minutes and impacted orchards in multiple villages,” he said, adding that Saidpora and Amshipora were also affected.

In Kulgam, Chief Horticulture Officer Mohd Ramzan War said preliminary assessment indicates that around 26 villages were affected by the hailstorm. “Nearly 2,700 hectares of orchard area has been impacted. A detailed assessment will be carried out by the Revenue Department,” he said.

He said teams were deputed to the affected areas for on-the-spot assessment and to guide orchardists. According to the department, orchards in upper belts were at the pink bud stage, while those in lower areas had reached mid to full bloom.

“Orchardists have been advised to carry out fungicide sprays after improvement in weather conditions to prevent infections and minimise further losses,” War said, adding that growers have also been asked to remove fallen leaves and maintain proper drainage.

He added that areas in Damhal Hanjipora, Noorabad belt, Mazgam, parts of Kulgam, and Waripora were among the affected areas.

Meanwhile, Cabinet Minister Sakeena Itoo, who visited the affected areas, said the damage has caused widespread distress among orchardists. “The way the horticulture sector has suffered losses over the past three to four years is deeply concerning. Horticulture is the backbone of Kashmir,” she said.

Referring to the latest hailstorm, she said, “Yesterday’s damage in particular has been severe… you can see how the flowers have fallen to the ground. People are very distressed.”

The minister said directions were issued to officials for immediate field visits and assessment. “I gave directions to several officers to go and conduct spot visits and carry out an assessment. This is very important,” she said.

She added that the government would extend possible assistance after assessment. “Whatever is in the hands of the government, we will certainly provide it,” she said.

“Climate change has increased significantly… such incidents are happening every year,” she said, adding that a crop insurance policy could provide relief to farmers in future.

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