Miscreants chop down dozens of apple trees in North Kashmir's Bandipora, probe launched 

Bandipora, Jun 02: A wave of shock and grief has gripped Gund Jahangir village in the Hajin area of north Kashmir’s Bandipora district after unidentified miscreants chopped down dozens of apple trees, devastating the livelihoods of nearly 20 orchard-owning families.

Muhammad Abdullah Sheikh, one of the worst-hit orchardists, said around 50 apple trees from his orchard alone were mercilessly felled. “I felt completely devastated when I was informed. It was as if someone had attacked my home. These trees were our lifeline,” he said, his voice choked with emotion.

The vandalism has affected multiple orchards across the village, leaving local growers in despair. Abdullah expressed his gratitude to the authorities, including the SDM, Tehsildar, SHO Hajin, and DySP, for their swift response and for reaching the site promptly.

Police have visited the spot and launched a formal investigation into the incident. The victims have appealed for stringent action against the culprits, fearing the repetition of such targeted acts of sabotage.

Another affected farmer, Abdul Salam Parray, said the orchards are the primary source of income for about 20 families. “This has created widespread panic. These trees were not just plants, they were our survival,” he lamented.

Locals have urged the administration to trace the culprits and provide compensation for the significant losses they have suffered.

Meanwhile, police have taken cognizance of the incident, and further investigation is underway. [KNT]