Shopian, Aug 7 (JKNS): In the wake of the recent strong winds and adverse weather conditions that caused significant damage to apple orchards, Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Zainapora, Bilal Ahmad (JKAS), on Thursday visited several affected villages in the Hermain area of Shopian to assess the extent of losses suffered by orchardists.
During the visit, the SDM conducted an on-the-spot inspection of damaged orchards and interacted with local growers to understand the scale of destruction caused by the windstorm. Farmers informed the visiting team that a large number of apple trees were damaged, while considerable quantities of fruit had fallen prematurely, raising concerns over severe financial losses during the ongoing horticulture season.
The SDM assured the affected growers that the administration is closely monitoring the situation and that a detailed assessment of the damage is being carried out. He directed the concerned departments to conduct a comprehensive survey of all affected villages so that the extent of losses can be properly documented and reported.
Bilal Ahmad was accompanied by the Tehsildar, Naib Tehsildar and officials from the Horticulture and Revenue Departments, who inspected the affected orchards and interacted with orchard owners during the visit. The officials were instructed to expedite the damage assessment process and ensure that all affected areas are covered without delay.
The visit comes after widespread damage was reported from several villages of the Hermain area, where strong winds severely impacted apple orchards, causing anxiety among growers who depend on horticulture as their primary source of livelihood.
Local residents appreciated the timely visit of the SDM and expressed hope that the government would take appropriate measures to provide relief and support to the affected farming community after the completion of the official assessment. (JKNS)
