MLA Nizamuddin visits hailstorm-hit areas in Bandipora

Srinagar, Aug 23: Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Bandipora, Nizamuddin Bhat on Monday visited the hailstorm-affected areas in the district to assess the situation.On Saturday evening, hailstorms wreaked havoc on standing crops and apple orchards in several villages of the district, with Dardpora and Shamthan among the worst affected.Bhat was accompanied by officers from the agriculture, horticulture, and field teams, who inspected the damaged orchards, crops and vegetable fields to gauge the extent of losses.Expressing concern, the MLA urged the district administration to conduct an immediate damage assessment and extend relief to the distressed farmers and orchardists. “The losses are extensive and timely intervention is necessary to safeguard livelihoods,” he said, assuring residents that the matter would be taken up with higher authorities.Farmers said the hailstorm has dealt a serious blow to their harvest prospects, Bhat said, adding that many expressed fears of financial strain if compensation and support are delayed.