Kupwara, May 31: A hailstorm damaged orchards and standing crops in multiple hamlets of Chowkibal area, creating havoc among the locals here.
The hailstorm caused damage in areas including Hachmarg and many hamlets of Chowkibal, leaving farmers shattered.
“The hailstorm started in afternoon which lasted for 10 minutes causing huge loss to orchards including apple, almond, walnut and cherry besides substantially damaging standing crops, vegetables and paddy saplings,” said a local.
Locals said that they were anticipating a good crop this year but their hopes were dashed because of hailstorm.
They urged the authorities to chart out a strategy for farmers and accordingly devise some relief plan to compensate the affected farmers.
Earlier, this month, on multiple occasions, hailstorm was reported across the length and breadth of the district.
The hailstorms have demoralised farmers who were anticipating a good crop.
Meanwhile, horticulture experts have advised farmers to consult them for future course of action.