Ajaz Beerwah

BEERWAH (BUDGAM), SEP 12 (KNS): A hailstorm accompanied by heavy rain damaged standing crops and horticultural produce in several areas of Beerwah in central Kashmir's Budgam district, farmers said on Saturday.

Chewdara, Ohangam, Rathsuna, Arwah and Beerwah town were among the affected areas, with farmers reporting damage to agricultural fields, vegetable crops, orchards and other seasonal produce.

The weather spell hit the area at around 11:20 pm on Friday, with hailstones damaging crops and horticultural produce. Farmers said the damage came at a crucial stage of crop growth.

Although the hailstorm lasted for a short period, it caused losses across several farming areas, residents said.

"We have suffered heavy losses. Almost all our crops in the affected areas have been damaged.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelFarmers have already invested heavily in cultivation and are now facing uncertainty over their livelihood," an affected farmer said.

Farmers have urged the district administration and the Agriculture and Horticulture departments to conduct an assessment of the damage and determine the extent of losses.

They also sought compensation for affected farmers and urged the authorities to deploy assessment teams to Chewdara, Ohangam, Rathsuna, Arwah and Beerwah town at the earliest.

Farmers said an early assessment would help identify the affected areas and ensure that eligible farmers receive relief.

The damage has added to the concerns of farmers who depend on agriculture and horticulture for their livelihood.(KNS)