Umaisar Gull Ganie
Srinagar, Feb 27: The fresh snowfall in the upper reaches, along with incessant rainfall, has brought much-needed relief to thousands of fruit growers and farmers across Kashmir. The precipitation has ended the prolonged dry spell in the region, raising hopes for a productive agricultural season ahead.
Experts had previously warned that the extended dry weather, with no rain or snow, was a cause for concern among fruit growers and farmers. The lack of soil moisture was expected to negatively impact both the quality and yield of fruits, particularly apples, in the upcoming season.
The dry conditions had also delayed the germination of Rabi crops, which could have led to reduced production.
Experts, said the lack of rain over an extended period dries up soil moisture, affecting flowering and fruit-setting, which directly impacts both the quantity and quality of crops. However, they said the fresh snowfall and rainfall have brought much-needed relief to the region’s agricultural community.
Mohammad Maqbool, a well-known fruit trader and expert from Shopian, said, “We received very little rain or snow over the last six months. Had this situation continued, the horticulture and agriculture sectors would have suffered immensely.”
He said that most orchards rely on rainwater for irrigation, and the prolonged dryness had left them struggling for water. “With abundant snow in the upper reaches and rainfall in the plains, we no longer have to worry about irrigation issues,” Maqbool added.
The dry spell had also heightened the risk of pest infestations, as a lack of moisture makes fruit trees more vulnerable.
Farmers, particularly those dependent on crops like Apple, paddy, and vegetables, expressed their relief, saying the timely precipitation has helped ensure a better harvest season.
Abdul Rahman, a vegetable farmer from Qaimoh, Kulgam, said, “We had almost lost hope, but the rain and snowfall in the upper reaches have revived our fields. Now, we can expect a good harvest.”
He said that timely rainfall is crucial for sustaining agriculture in the valley, especially after an extended dry spell that had left farmers anxious about their crops.
Bashir Ahmad, an apple orchard owner from Shopian, said, “Without water, farming is impossible. This snowfall will ensure our streams and canals don’t dry up in summer. We were worried about a drought-like situation, but nature has finally come to our rescue.”
He said that the snowfall is particularly beneficial for apple orchards, as it helps maintain soil moisture and ensures a steady water supply for irrigation in the coming months.
Mohammad Yousuf, a vegetable farmer from Budgam, pointed out that this precipitation was much needed. “The dry spell had left our lands parched, and many crops were on the verge of wilting. Thankfully, this rain and snow have replenished the moisture in the soil, giving us hope for a better yield.”
Dr Rizwan, an environmental expert, said that prolonged dry weather disrupts the natural irrigation cycle, leading to water scarcity and reduced yields.
“The dry conditions also create an environment conducive to pests and diseases, further endangering orchards,” he said.
Farmers who had planted Rabi crops also faced difficulties due to delayed germination caused by insufficient soil moisture. “Many feared a drop in production, particularly for mustard, which is harvested in May and was already showing signs of vulnerability due to the lack of precipitation,” Dr Rizwan added.
Irshad Ahmad, a farmer from Anantnag, said there is a direct connection between winter snowfall and water availability for paddy cultivation.
“Farmers were extremely worried, but this snowfall and rainfall have brought smiles to our faces,” he said, adding, “Most agricultural land in Kashmir, including apple orchards and saffron fields, is rain-fed. Therefore, the recent precipitation has been a blessing for the entire valley.”
An official from the Public Health Engineering (PHE) Department said many water sources were on the verge of drying up due to the prolonged dry spell.
“The rains and snow have revived hopes that these water sources, especially springs, will get recharged. This will ensure an uninterrupted water supply and improved power availability in the region,” he said.
According to him, some springs have already been replenished, while others are expected to recover soon. “All water supply schemes that had become defunct due to drying water sources will be made functional soon,” he added.
The official said that while the recharging of water sources may take a few days, there is optimism that Kashmir will recover from the potable water shortages caused by the extended dry spell.
Agricultural experts believe that the rain and snow will improve the overall crop yield and enhance productivity in the region. The fresh layer of snow on the mountains is expected to gradually melt, further helping in the replenishment of irrigation systems across the valley.
Chief Agriculture Officer Anantnag, Aijaz Ahmad Dar, said that in agriculture, three key components are essential: seed, soil, and water. “Farmers were worried after the recent dry spell. They feared a drought-like situation, but now there is relief after the fresh spell of rain and snowfall in the higher reaches.”
He said that the water table has risen, and the recharge capacity has significantly improved.
“The probability of a drought-like situation, which was around 70%, has now dropped to 15% after the rains and snowfall,” he said, expressing hope that the weather will remain favourable and beneficial for farmers.
