Incessant rains leave Kupwara farmers in stress

Kupwara, Jul 22: The incessant rains in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district has left those associated with the agricultural sector in deep stress fearing for their annual production.
Kupwara district in recent days received rains causing flood like situation in many parts of the district. It has left the residents in deep stress causing a worry about agricultural and horticulture products.
As per the official data available, about 80 per cent of the total population of the district is either directly or indirectly involved in the agricultural sector.
The rains have wreaked havoc in the district over the last few days.
Water levels of various streams have risen as per the inhabitants resulting in a flood like trouble.
Residents from parts of Lolab, Zirhama, Hyhama and many other places complained about the flood like situation in their areas.
They stated that the increased water levels have caused damage to agricultural products like Maize and Paddy fields.
Roads, bridges and some small culverts they said have also suffered damage due to the flash floods.
Agricultural products like maize and paddy have suffered immense damage due to the regular downpour.
They also said that rains were followed by some gutsy winds. “Some roads and bridges have been damaged also.”
In Handwara the residents informed that although it rained but the volume and intensity wasn’t to an extent to cause any damage.
Meanwhile, Chief Agriculture Officer (CAO) Gurdev Singh said that the rains have caused some damage but not heavy.
He said that the maize crop has suffered damage in Sogam lolab.
He also said that paddy suffered damage due to slides close to rivers, nallah and bridges. “Paddy hasn’t suffered damage due to rains. We have not reported a hail storm.”
He also said that they are accessing the situation and details regarding the damage shall be known.