Hailstorm Devastates Orchards, Crops in Upper Rajwar; Farmers Seek Immediate Relief

GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL

HANDWARA, SEPT,23:– In a major blow to the farming community, a severe hailstorm lashed the upper areas of Rajwar this afternoon, damaging orchards, vegetable fields and standing crops and raising fears of substantial financial losses for farmers who depend heavily on agriculture and horticulture for their livelihoods.

The sudden hailstorm left farmers distressed as fruit-bearing trees, vegetables and other crops were reportedly damaged across affected areas. For many growers, the damage comes at a critical time and could translate into significant loss of income.

Prominent North Kashmir social activist Javid Ahmad Mir has urged the government and concerned authorities to conduct an immediate assessment of the losses and provide adequate compensation and relief to the affected farmers.

Mir appealed to the administration to dispatch assessment teams to the affected areas without delay and ensure that genuine beneficiaries receive timely assistance.

He said the affected farmers should not be left to bear the financial burden of the natural calamity alone and urged the authorities to take immediate measures to minimise their hardship.