SHOPIAN, Apr 7 (KNS): A sudden hailstorm has caused extensive damage to apple blossoms in several parts of the southern region of Kashmir, leaving farmers in distress at the very onset of the new horticulture season.

 

According to reports reaching  News Agency Kashmir News Service (KNS), the hailstorm, which lasted for a considerable duration, struck orchards at a crucial stage when flowering had just begun. The impact is expected to adversely affect the overall apple yield this year, dealing a major blow to the livelihoods of orchardists in the region.

 

Farmers have appealed to the government for immediate relief and compensation, urging authorities to take swift measures to mitigate their losses.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

 

"This is a critical time for us. The flowers had just started blooming, and the hailstorm has shattered our hopes," an affected farmer told news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS).

 

Meanwhile, officials of the Horticulture Department said the assessment of damage is currently underway. Several teams have been dispatched to the affected areas to evaluate the extent of losses caused by the hailstorm.

 

Authorities have assured that a detailed report will be prepared soon based on field inspections, and necessary steps will be taken to support the affected farmers, an official added. (KNS)