Kupwara, Apr 19 (KNS: A severe hailstorm coupled with incessant rainfall has caused widespread damage to fruit crops, vegetables, and residential areas across several parts of Kupwara, triggering concerns among the local population, especially the farming community.

District Development Council (DDC) Chairman Kupwara, Irfan Sultan Pandithpori, who visited the worst-hit areas on Saturday, expressed deep concern over the extensive losses suffered by farmers and residents. Reports suggest that the sudden weather disturbance, which included cloudbursts at some locations, led to waterlogging and flooding in low-lying areas. Several houses have been inundated, and both public and private properties have been damaged.

Chairman Pandithpori assured the affected families of his full support and urged the government to release compensation without any delay. “The damage is widespread and heartbreaking. I appeal to the UT Government and concerned departments to sanction relief for the affected farmers and residents at the earliest,” he said.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Highlighting the scale of the damage, Pandithpori called for a comprehensive damage assessment by the district administration. He also emphasized the need for measures such as the waiving off of Kisan Credit Card (KCC) loans for affected farmers and the promotion of crop insurance schemes to safeguard the farming sector against future weather shocks.

The DDC Chairman stressed the importance of adopting climate-resilient agricultural practices to reduce risks from the growing trend of extreme weather events. He urged authorities to prioritize the interests of farmers who have lost their standing crops, including apple and walnut orchards, and kitchen gardens.

In his appeal, Pandithpori also asked residents to stay alert and avoid venturing into vulnerable areas during such conditions, and assured that his office remains available for coordination and public assistance. (KNS)