SRINAGAR: A sudden and intense hailstorm on Monday caused widespread damage to apple orchards in several villages of South Kashmir’s Shopian and Kulgam districts, leaving growers worried about heavy losses during the crucial flowering stage.
The hailstorm, which lasted for nearly 20 minutes, struck areas including Feeripora, Mandujan, Pudsoo, Saidpora, Adijan, Kanjiullar, Nihama, Ramhama, DH Pora, Manzgam, Chogalpora, Rambhama, Ladgoo, Samnoo and Bathipora.
According to local residents, the hailstorm flattened delicate apple blossoms at a stage considered critical for fruit set, raising fears of a significantly reduced harvest this year.
Growers said the timing of the weather event could not have been worse.
“This is the flowering stage and it is extremely important for fruit formation. Once the flowers are damaged by hailstones, the chances of recovery are very low,” said an orchardist from Shopian.
Another grower from Kulgam said the damage appeared to be extensive.
“Nearly 90 per cent of the flowers seem to have been damaged. The hail continued for around 20 minutes and its impact may not be limited to this year alone, but could also affect the next season,” he said.
Orchardists said the flowering phase determines the eventual yield of the crop and any damage at this stage directly affects production.
“Horticulture is the backbone of our economy and such weather events are devastating. We were expecting a good season, but the hailstorm has shattered our hopes,” said a grower from DH Pora.
The affected farmers urged the government and the horticulture department to immediately assess the damage and provide compensation.
“We appeal to the administration to conduct a ground survey and extend financial assistance to the affected orchardists,” the grower said.
The latest spell of erratic weather has further increased the concerns of farmers in the region, who are already struggling with climate-related uncertainties and rising input costs.
Horticulture experts said damage to blossoms at the flowering stage significantly reduces fruit formation and recovery remains difficult even if weather conditions improve in the coming weeks.
