Hailstorm damages orchards in Kashmir parts

Srinagar, May 13: A major hailstorm was on Sunday witnessed in several parts of north Kashmir’s Baramulla district, causing extensive damage to the apple orchards – the primary livelihood source of the inhabitants.

As per reports, few villages of Tangmarg witnessed a bout of hailstorm at around 4: 50 PM. The weather vagary lasting for some ten minutes caused extensive damage to apple orchards, walnut and cherry trees besides washing down vegetable gardens.

“We had been expecting a good crop this year, but unfortunately the ravaging hailstorm has shattered our hopes,” said a group of locals.

“We urge the government to assess the damage caused and

accordingly release a compensation package for the affected families,” they said.

Meanwhile, hailstorm was also witnessed in other parts of the Valley.