Scorching heat, rainfall deficit threaten apple quality

Shopian, Jul 3: An unusual rise in temperatures across Kashmir’s fruit-producing belt has raised concern among apple growers, who fear the prolonged dry spell could compromise fruit quality and lead to significant financial losses.

“The continuous heat could cause sunburn on the fruit and hinder its proper development, potentially leading to smaller size, poor quality, and reduced market value,” said Tariq Ahmad Mir, an apple grower from Shopian.

He said that the extended dry spell might also shorten the shelf life of the fruit, further affecting returns.

The region continues to reel under an intense heatwave, accompanied by a notable rainfall deficit. According to meteorological data from June 1 to June 25, Kashmir witnessed significantly below-average precipitation.

Srinagar recorded a 65 percent rainfall deficit during the period.

Bandipora registered a 71 percent shortfall, followed by Kulgam at 62 percent, Baramulla at 47 percent, Ganderbal at 54 percent, Shopian at 44 percent, Kupwara at 36 percent, and Pulwama at 13 percent, official figures show.

Many orchardists have started manually irrigating their fields using water pumps.

However, the situation remains more difficult for farmers in rain-fed areas, where access to irrigation infrastructure is limited or nonexistent.

Adding to their woes, water levels in canals and other irrigation sources have dropped, further complicating efforts to keep orchards hydrated.

For many, apple farming remains a key economic lifeline, and the lack of water has made this year’s crop particularly vulnerable.

“I have never seen such punishing heat in my life. Even in the higher belts, the apples are showing signs of stress,” said Muhammad Yousuf, an apple farmer from Damhal Hanjipora in Kulgam district.

He said that if the heatwave persists, the crop might suffer irreversible damage.

According to the farmer, more than 70 percent population in the area relies on apple cultivation for their livelihood.

Prof Tariq Rasool of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Kashmir (SKUAST-K) said prolonged high temperatures could disrupt nutrient uptake in apple trees.

“It will reduce shelf life and cause sunburn on the fruit,” he said.

With no immediate relief in sight, farmers and experts alike are urging authorities to step in with support and long-term adaptation measures as climate extremes begin to reshape Kashmir’s famed apple industry.