Shopian, Aug 7: Strong gusty winds accompanied by hailstorm and heavy rainfall caused extensive damage to apple orchards in several parts of Shopian district on Thursday, prompting the administration to assess the losses on the ground.
The Kachdora belt was among the worst-affected areas, while orchards in Dangam, Wanagam, Kaprin, Hanjipora, Braripora, Rakhama and Zaipora also reported damage. The storm reportedly lasted around 10–20 minutes, causing apples to fall from trees and damaging standing crops.
Following the damage, SDM Zainapora Bilal Ahmad (JKAS) on Friday visited the wind-affected villages of Hermain to take stock of the situation and assess losses suffered by local orchardists.
During the visit, the SDM inspected the affected orchards and interacted with farmers regarding the extent of damage. He was accompanied by the Tehsildar, Naib Tehsildar and officials from the Horticulture and Revenue Departments.
The visit comes a day after strong winds and hailstorm caused significant damage to orchards across the area. Local orchardists have sought a comprehensive assessment of the losses and timely relief and compensation from the administration.
Officials said the field assessment would help determine the extent of damage caused to the apple crop and facilitate further action as per the applicable norms.
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