Shopian, Apr 18: A hailstorm swept through several areas of south Kashmir’s Shopian district on Friday, leaving widespread destruction in its wake. The sudden weather event damaged orchards, uprooted trees, and caused panic among residents as marble-sized hailstones pelted rooftops and farmlands.
Areas worst hit include Shadab Karewa, Kanipora, Zawoora, Manloo, Narapora, Pargochu, and parts of the main town. Eyewitnesses said the storm struck without warning and lasted nearly 15 minutes, but the impact was devastating.
Fruit growers, especially apple orchardists, bore the brunt of the storm. “It was like watching our future being destroyed in front of our eyes,” said Ghulam Rasool, an orchard owner from Narapora. “The hail shredded the apple blossoms. We had pinned our hopes on a good harvest this year.”
Apple cultivation forms the backbone of the region’s economy, and any damage at the blooming stage threatens to cripple the livelihood of thousands of families.
The district administration has dispatched assessment teams to gauge the extent of the losses. Officials said compensation and relief measures will be considered once a detailed report is compiled.
Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department has warned of more unstable weather in the coming days and urged farmers and residents to take necessary precautions. [KNT]
