Srinagar, Sep 15(KNS): Fruit growers in the Kashmir Valley are facing a mounting worry as they fear the potential loss of crores of rupees due to recent weather adversities.

A devastating hailstorm struck the adjoining areas of Shopian for a period of 20 minutes, causing significant damage to fruit orchards.

Reports from the Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers Cum Dealers Union indicate that Katpura, Nadigam, and other areas of Shopian were affected by the fierce hailstorm. The orchards in these regions have suffered irreparable harm, leaving fruit growers in the valley anxious about substantial financial setbacks.

The timing of this calamity couldn't be worse, as apple harvesting is in full swing. The recent hailstorm has inflicted heavy losses on the apple crops, further exacerbating the challenges faced by orchard owners and industry stakeholders. The fruit industry holds a pivotal role in Kashmir's economy, and any damage to it directly impacts the region's financial stability.


Adding to the industry's woes, Kashmir has been grappling with a persistent drought since the beginning of July. The lack of rainfall and consistent temperature spikes have adversely affected fruit crops, including apples, by impacting their size and color. Several apple varieties, including American and Delicious, are at risk of reduced production.


Representing all Fruit Growers Associations of the Valley, the Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers Cum Dealers Union has urgently requested the intervention of the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir (Union Territory). They have put forth the following requests:

They seek the immediate deployment of officers from the Agriculture University (SKAUST) Shalimar and a joint team from the Department of Horticulture, Development Department Kashmir, and Horticulture P&M to evaluate the damage caused by the recent heavy snow, rain, and hailstorm in all Fruit Orchards of District Shopian.

They emphasize the importance of providing fruit growers with essential knowledge to prevent diseases in the remaining fruit trees.

The Fruit Growers Union has been advocating for the implementation of a Crop Insurance Scheme (Kissan Beema Yojana) to offer some relief in the event of minor calamities. They urge the government to introduce this scheme for the benefit of Valley-based fruit growers.(KNS).