Apple orchard vandalized in Bandipora

Bandipora, Jul 16: An apple orchard in Arin village of north Kashmir’s Bandipora district was allegedly vandalized during the intervening night, with several fruit-bearing trees reportedly damaged by unidentified persons, causing losses to the orchard owner.
According to local residents, unknown miscreants entered the privately owned orchard under the cover of darkness and damaged a number of apple trees before fleeing from the spot.
The incident came to light on Thursday morning when the orchard owner visited the site and found several trees damaged.
Locals described the act as unfortunate and said such incidents not only cause financial losses to growers but also undermine the hard work invested in maintaining orchards, which serve as the primary source of livelihood for many families in the area.
They urged the police and district administration to investigate the incident, identify those involved and take strict action against the culprits to prevent the recurrence of such acts.
The incident has caused concern among orchardists in the area, who have sought greater vigilance to safeguard horticultural assets.
Police are expected to initiate an inquiry into the matter. [KNT]