Hailstorms, heavy rains ravage orchards, expose drainage woes in Baramulla

Back-to-back hailstorms followed by heavy rainfall have dealt a severe blow to the horticulture sector in Baramulla district, causing substantial losses to fruit growers and exposing deficiencies in the region’s drainage infrastructure.

The adverse weather conditions have damaged orchards across several areas of the district, raising concerns among growers who fear a significant impact on this season’s fruit production.

Heavy rains also triggered widespread waterlogging in several parts of Baramulla town, disrupting normal life and affecting both residents and traders. Areas including Kanispora, the Old Town and stretches along the Srinagar-Baramulla highway witnessed inundated roads as inadequate drainage systems struggled to cope with the rainfall.

Residents and members of the business community expressed concern over the recurring problem, saying poor drainage continues to cause immense hardship whenever heavy rains occur.

Many urged the authorities to undertake immediate measures to upgrade and maintain the drainage network to prevent flooding and ensure smoother movement of people and vehicles.

“It is not only the drainage system. The condition of roads is equally alarming, with huge potholes making life difficult for commuters. The authorities need to act immediately as public concern over these issues is growing,” said Fayaz Ahmad, a local resident.

In Uri town, waterlogging outside a government complex housing several departments caused significant inconvenience to visitors. The building accommodates offices including the Zonal Education Office, Block Development Office (BDO) and several other government establishments.

Following Thursday’s rainfall and strong winds, access to these offices became difficult as stagnant water accumulated at the entrance, leaving visitors struggling to reach the premises.

“The authorities need to level the premises of the building, which serves as a mini secretariat for the area. The issue can be resolved with a relatively small investment,” said Muhammad Asghar, a resident of Uri.

Residents have called upon the administration to address the recurring drainage and road infrastructure issues on priority to prevent further inconvenience during the ongoing rainy season.