Kashmir Assesses Crop Damage After Unseasonal Snowfall, Farmers Advised to Delay Harvest
Quick-Answer Summary Box:
- Event: Untimely snowfall damages crops and orchards in Kashmir
- Assessment: Horticulture department evaluating damage across valley
- Farmer Advice: Wait for dry weather before resuming harvest
- Affected Areas: Larnoo, Daksun in Kokernag; apple orchards hit hard
- Additional Impact: Power lines damaged, roads slippery, trees uprooted
Official Damage Assessment Initiated Across Valley
SRINAGAR: The horticulture department has launched a comprehensive assessment of crop damage following unexpected snowfall across various parts of Kashmir, officials confirmed on Tuesday.
Deputy Director of Horticulture, Kashmir, Javid Ahmad Bhat told media persons that teams are currently evaluating the impact of the recent snowfall on crops throughout the Valley. The assessment comes after fresh snowfall in several areas caused visible damage to agricultural produce and infrastructure.
Farmers Urged to Delay Harvest Operations
In crucial advice to the farming community, Bhat emphasized that farmers should “wait for dry weather before resuming harvest operations to prevent any further loss.” This guidance aims to minimize additional damage that could occur if harvesting proceeds in wet conditions.
The unseasonal snowfall has particularly affected apple orchards, which are at a critical harvesting stage, raising concerns about potential economic losses for thousands of farming families dependent on horticulture.
Kokernag Areas Bear Initial Brunt
Early reports from Larnoo and Daksun areas of Kokernag indicate widespread damage to apple orchards and power supply lines. Local residents reported that several trees were uprooted under the weight of accumulated snow, causing partial disruption in electricity and road connectivity.
The heavy, wet snow arriving earlier than usual has caught many farmers unprepared, with mature fruit-laden trees being particularly vulnerable to branch breakage and damage.
Travel Advisories Issued for High-Altitude Routes
Officials from the traffic department and local administrations have advised travelers to check road conditions before heading toward high-altitude passes. Snow accumulation has made several stretches slippery and risky, prompting safety concerns for both local commuters and transportation of agricultural produce.KNC
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Which areas in Kashmir are affected by the untimely snowfall?
A: The snowfall has affected various parts of Kashmir, with significant damage reported in Larnoo and Daksun areas of Kokernag. Assessment is ongoing in other regions.
Q2: What should farmers do regarding their harvest?
A: The horticulture department advises farmers to wait for dry weather conditions before resuming harvest operations to prevent additional losses.
Q3: What types of damage have been reported?
A: Initial reports indicate damage to apple orchards, uprooted trees, damaged power supply lines, and disrupted road connectivity in affected areas.
Q4: Is there any travel advisory in effect?
A: Yes, traffic officials have advised travelers to check road conditions before heading to high-altitude passes due to slippery conditions from snow accumulation.
Economic Concerns for Agricultural Sector
This untimely weather event raises significant concerns for Kashmir’s agricultural economy, particularly the apple industry which represents a substantial portion of the region’s horticultural output. The ongoing assessment will determine the extent of losses and potential support measures needed for affected farmers.
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