Unseasonal downpour threatens crops in Pir Panjal

Rajouri, Oct 7: In the past 24 hours, Pir Panjal region’s twin districts – Rajouri and Poonch - witnessed heavy rainfall in low-lying areas and snowfall in the higher reaches, marking an unusual weather pattern for the month of October.

The untimely and intense precipitation has triggered widespread concern among farmers, who fear severe damage to their standing and harvested crops.

Maize and paddy, currently at the harvesting stage, have been hit hardest by the persistent downpour.

Farmers from various areas said that heavy rains increased the moisture content in the grass and harvested crops, putting them at risk of rotting.

“Our crops can only be saved if we get at least five days of continuous sunshine,” said local farmer Muhammad Jameel, expressing apprehension that more rainfall in the coming days could lead to permanent spoilage.

The unseasonal snowfall and rainfall have not only disrupted agricultural activities but also raised concerns over fodder availability and rural livelihood in the Pir Panjal region.

Incharge Krishi Vigyaan Kendra Rajouri, Dr Arvind K Isher has appealed to farmers to ensure that their harvested crops are dried properly before further processing, as otherwise the extracted cereals and grains would get spoiled.

Isher said that the farmers can resume harvesting practices from Wednesday onwards, as there is no rainfall prediction.