Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar,(DD):A powerful wave of unseasonal rains and hailstorms battered several districts of Kashmir today causing widespread damage to fruit orchards, crops, and property. The sudden weather change has left farmers in despair and raised concerns over the region’s already fragile horticulture-based economy.
Districts such as Shopian, Pulwama, Kulgam, Anantnag, and Baramulla were the hardest hit. Fields that were lush just days ago now lie strewn with fallen fruit and broken branches, as farmers scramble to salvage what remains of the season’s yield.
“This year, the bloom was very promising. We were hopeful after two difficult years, but now everything’s gone. Our orchards are our only source of income,” said Bashir Ahmad Lone, a grower from Pulwama, standing amid hail-damaged apple trees.
The hailstorm, which lasted several minutes but came with tremendous intensity, left tin roofs punctured and roads waterlogged. In Srinagar, vehicles moved slowly through rain-clogged streets, and traffic jams were reported in several areas due to reduced visibility and water accumulation.
“We are used to spring showers, but this hail was different — sharp and sudden. It sounded like bullets on our rooftops,” said Fatima Jan, 3a resident of Sopore. “Children were terrified. We had to move them away from the windows.”
In Shopian, where horticulture contributes significantly to the local economy, officials estimate that over 60% of orchards may have suffered some level of damage. “The hailstones were as big as walnuts. Everything – apples, pears, cherries – has been hit,” said Ghulam Nabi Dar, a local orchard union leader.
Officials from the Horticulture Department and Disaster Management Authority have begun field visits to assess losses. “Preliminary reports suggest substantial damage to crops, especially in south Kashmir. A detailed assessment is underway, and affected farmers will be compensated under SDRF guidelines,” said Farooq Ahmad Shah, a senior official in the Agriculture Department.
The Kashmir Valley had already been witnessing an early bloom this year due to warmer temperatures in March. However, the abrupt weather swing has now left many farmers worried about a possible repeat of 2022, when untimely snow had ruined apple harvests.
The Meteorological Department has predicted more unstable weather in the coming days. “Scattered rainfall, thunder, and hail activity is expected to continue over the weekend. Farmers are advised to take preventive measures where possible,” said MeT Director Sonam Lotus.
With climate unpredictability becoming more frequent, many in the valley are now urging the government to introduce crop insurance schemes and provide access to modern weather-resilient techniques.
“This isn’t just about one storm,” said orchardist Abid Hussain from Anantnag. “We need long-term support, not just relief after disasters. We’re battling nature alone.” (DD)