Hailstorm again struck the districts of Shopian and Kulgam -in the Indian union territory of Jammu and Kashmir-, extensively damaging crops. Locals from many areas from the twin districts said that the hailstorm resulted in heavy damage. In the districts, a heavy hailstorm that lasted for 15 minutes resulted in accumulation of an inch deep hail cover that ripped into the standing fruit and crushed agricultural crops. The worst affected villages which were hit by the storm include Pinjora, Pehlipora, Pargochi, Voterpora, Pahnoo, Aglar and other adjoining villages. A similar storm five days ago also resulted in damages to the crops, although this was of less intensity. Chief Horticulture Officer Shopian, Muhammad Yousuf Dar stated that they have geared up the field staff to provide technical assistance to orchardists and assessment of losses. “We will send the report to higher authorities and access if the damages qualifies the relief or compensation,” he said adding that the prime concern is to save fruit from infection after hail damage. Source - https://www.freshplaza.com