Walnut harvesting: Experts urge people to follow safety tips to prevent fatal falls

Srinagar, Sep 29: With the walnut harvesting season in full swing, accidental deaths due to falls from walnut trees have recently raised major safety concerns. The walnut harvesting season, a significant time for horticulture in Kashmir valley, begins in late August and continues through September.

Amid the increasing number of accidental deaths caused by falls from walnut trees, experts are urging people to take safety measures to avoid such tragic incidents in the future. Every year, several individuals lose their lives, while many others sustain injuries from falling off walnut trees in various parts of north, south, and central Kashmir during harvesting.

Experts believe these accidents often result from the crude traditional methods used in walnut harvesting. They suggest that if farmers are educated and more scientific methods, grounded in common sense, are adopted, many lives could be saved.

Notably, last year, amid rising tree-related accidents, the Jammu and Kashmir Disaster Management Department issued an advisory with dos and don’ts to prevent casualties during the walnut harvesting season in the valley. The department emphasised that these accidents are becoming an occupational hazard for traditional walnut farmers.

"If precautions are not taken, falls from heights can cause serious spinal injuries," they stated. "The general public, particularly walnut farmers, is requested to adhere to safety measures to avoid further accidental deaths."

The advisory further recommended that only experienced and trained individuals should climb walnut trees during harvest. It also advised the use of helmets and properly anchored safety harness ropes to prevent fatal falls.

Farmers are also encouraged to wear non-slip boots and check weather forecasts from the IMD before planning their harvest. Additionally, the advisory warned against using long metal poles to harvest the walnuts, as accidental contact with electrical lines could result in electrocution, serious injury, or death.

"Remove logs, stones, boulders, etc., from around the base of the tree to reduce risks. Use safety nets or thick stacks of hay around the tree to prevent injuries in case of a fall. Ensure a stable and firm position before beating the walnuts," the advisory added.