Bandipora, June 02 (KNO): Massive hailstorm and gusty winds on Tuesday afternoon caused extensive damage to orchards, paddy saplings in several areas of north Kashmir's Bandipora district.
An official told news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that the hailstorm coupled with gusty winds caused extensive damage to standing crop in several areas including Gundpora-Rampora, Gamroo, Kudara, CA-Khan, Arin and Sumlar.
The official said that Gundpora and Arin-Dardpora villages have been worst hit as orchards and paddy saplings have suffered major damage. Farmers of these areas told KNO that they have suffered heavy losses due to massive hailstorm which have damaged their standing crops and vegetables.
They said the hailstorm started at around 5pm and continued for more than an hour. "It is the fourth time in the last fifteen days hailstorm damaged crops, apple orchards and vegetables in these areas," they said.
Meanwhile, locals and farmers urged the administration to depute a team of officials to assess the damage and compensate the affected farmers—(KNO)