Snowfall blankets south Kashmir’s apple-rich Shopian

Pulwama, 1 Feb: As Chilai Kalan, the harshest leg of winter ended on January 29, a fresh spell of snowfall blanketed south Kashmir's Shopian district on Saturday, lifting the spirits of apple farmers.

The snowfall began early in the morning and continues into afternoon, draping the area in a white blanket.

According to an official, the plains of the district received 3 to 4 inches of snow. "The upper reaches like Heepora, Sedow, Bohrihalan received around 10 to 12 inches of snow", added the official.

The snowfall has ended a long-drawn-out dry spell, alleviating the concerns of thousands of apple farmers in the area .

"The snowfall and a significant drop in temperature were crucial for the orchards as it would stop the premature flowering and early pest incidences", said Tariq Ahmad, a well-heeled apple cultivator from the area.