Sat Apr 19 16:19:59 UTC 2025: ## Kashmir Hailstorm Devastates Apple Orchards, Triggers Cold Wave
**Srinagar, April 19, 2025** – A sudden hailstorm accompanied by gusty winds and a fresh snowfall in the upper reaches of Kashmir Valley has caused significant damage to apple orchards across the region, leaving orchard owners facing potential losses in the lakhs of rupees. The unexpected early summer snowfall also triggered a cold wave, with Srinagar recording a maximum temperature of only 12.2°C, a stark 8.6°C below the normal temperature for this time of year.
Orchard owners in several villages, including Ganowpora, Manloo, and Mujpathri in Shopian district, reported widespread damage to apple blossoms, leaving trees vulnerable to the cold. Reyaz Ganai, an apple orchard owner from Ganowpora, described the situation as “worrying,” highlighting the potential economic devastation for the apple industry.
The Omar Abdullah government has initiated damage assessment and has pledged support to affected farmers. Minister Sakeena Itoo stated that the government “stands firmly with the farming community,” acknowledging the loss of both crops and months of hard work. Calls for government intervention, including subsidies for anti-hailstorm nets similar to a Himachal Pradesh initiative, have been made by National Conference leader Farooq Ahmad Shah. Sajad Lone, chairman of the J&K Peoples Conference, described the hailstorm as causing “devastation and destruction” to the region’s agricultural backbone.
With further storms predicted, the administration has established control rooms and the Irrigation and Flood Control Department is monitoring water levels. Traffic advisories have been issued for hazardous roads, and the public has been urged to avoid unnecessary travel. Quick response teams are deployed in Srinagar, and shikara operations on Dal Lake have been suspended. The situation remains critical, with authorities focusing on damage assessment and providing support to the affected farmers.
First Piper 