Srinagar, Dec 30: The recent major snowfall during Chillai-Kalan in Kashmir has brought a wave of optimism to fruit growers across the Valley, who see it as a blessing for their orchards and the region’s agricultural prospects. The heavy snowfall, which blanketed the region last week, is expected to boost water reserves and improve crop yields in the upcoming season.
Mohammad Lateef Jaan, a fruit grower from north Kashmir’s Sopore town, shared his relief with Rising Kashmir, saying, “We were worried due to the prolonged dry spell, but this snowfall gives us hope for a bumper crop next year.” He explained that snowfall helps maintain the water table, ensuring adequate irrigation for orchards during critical months ahead. “By the grace of Almighty Allah, the apple blossoms will thrive in spring,” he added.
Mohammad Altaf, a fruit grower from Yadipora Pattan, described the snowfall as a “gift from nature.” He recalled the severe water shortage during the summer, which led to less juicy fruit. “This snowfall will last long on the mountains until summer, and after a dry spell, it will rejuvenate our trees,” he said, emphasizing that without enough snow, both yield and quality suffer.
Many fruit growers have highlighted the importance of snowfall during Chillai-Kalan, the harsh 40-day winter period in Kashmir. Bashir Ahmad, a cherry grower from Tangmarg, stressed the significance of snow during this time. “It stays longer and ensures a steady water supply well into summer,” he said, adding, “After such a dry year, this is the kind of winter we were hoping for.” Ahmad also noted that the snowfall not only replenishes the water tables but also ensures that fruit trees get the necessary chilling hours to bloom properly, leading to better yields and more flavorful fruits.
Following this season’s first major snowfall, Kashmir is expected to experience two more snow spells in the first week of January, further benefiting the horticulture sector.
In contrast, November 2024 ended with a significant rainfall deficit of 69% in Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh Union Territories. According to Director of the Meteorological Department, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, the weather remained mostly fair and clear, due to the absence of strong Western Disturbances (WD) and a stable atmosphere. This led to above-normal temperatures and a substantial rainfall shortfall.
Dr. Ahmad explained, “The month of November ended with a 69% rainfall deficit. The normal rainfall for the month is 35.3 mm, but only 10.9 mm was recorded.” Kathua district observed a 100% departure from normal, receiving 0 mm of rainfall, while Poonch district experienced a 98% deficit.
Budgam district received just 14.9 mm of rainfall against the normal value of 30.1 mm, marking a 90% deficiency. However, Samba district stood out with 48% more rainfall than normal, receiving 12.5 mm compared to the normal of 8.1 mm. Kupwara received 48.1 mm of rainfall, just 3% below the normal.
Dr. Ahmad added, “Both Srinagar and Jammu districts saw 74% and 78% less rainfall than normal, respectively, during November.”
