A heavy pre-dawn hailstorm damaged orchards and standing crops in several villages of Tral in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district, triggering concern among farmers over possible financial losses.
The hailstorm affected Nagbal, Zaradihar, Machama, Chankitaar, Mandoora, Panner Jageer and adjoining areas, damaging apple blossoms and vegetable fields.
Farmers said the storm caused significant damage to tender fruit-bearing growth, raising fears of reduced apple yield this season. Residents urged the horticulture and revenue departments to conduct an immediate assessment and provide relief to affected growers.
Officials said the extent of damage was being assessed.
