Baramulla, May 13 (KNS) : Expressing deep concern over extensive damage to apple orchards and standing crops, Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) senior leader and District President Baramulla, Mohd Rafique Rather, on Wednesday demanded a special relief package for the affected farmers of several Kandi areas.
The severe hailstorm, which also hit parts of Tangmarg Sub Division, has left farmers and orchardists in a state of shock and uncertainty, Rather said in a statement.
The farming and horticulture sectors, already facing immense challenges, have been pushed towards severe economic distress due to the natural calamity, he added.
He urged the District Administration Baramulla to immediately depute teams on the ground for a comprehensive assessment of the damages. He also demanded that the Chief Agriculture Officer and Chief Horticulture Officer personally visit the affected areas and submit a detailed report for adequate compensation.
Rather further appealed to the government to announce a special relief package, stressing that timely assistance was necessary to safeguard the livelihood of thousands of families dependent on agriculture and horticulture.
The PDP leader also appealed to the administration to adopt a humanitarian approach while dealing with the affected population and ensure speedy redressal of their grievances. (KNS)