Congress leader Haji Farooq Mir seeks relief as hailstorm ravages crops, residential property in Lolab

Kupwara: President District Congress Committee Kupwara and former Vice Chairman District Development Council Kupwara, Haji Farooq Ahmad Mir, on Sunday expressed concern over extensive damage caused by a recent hailstorm in several areas of North Lolab.

The affected areas include Warnow, Kawari, Sever Aafan, Khurhama, Kuligam, Cheepora, Maidanpora, Gagal, Putshai and Wavoora, among others, where standing crops and orchards have reportedly suffered significant losses.

Mir said he has taken up the matter with the Lieutenant Governor’s administration, seeking immediate assessment of losses incurred by farmers and orchardists. He also appealed for waiver of Kisan Credit Card loans to provide relief to the affected population.

He further said that he held discussions with the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir and Deputy Commissioner Kupwara, highlighting the damage not only to the agriculture and horticulture sectors but also to residential property located near nallahs.

Mir stressed the need for construction of bunds and crate bunds to protect vulnerable households and prevent further damage to agricultural land due to erosion and flooding.

He reiterated that agriculture and horticulture form the backbone of the local economy and called for timely intervention by the administration to safeguard livelihoods and provide necessary support to the affected families.