Srinagar, May 14 -- Gusty winds and hailstorm damaged several orchards in north Kashmir's Pattan, Kreeri and Tangmarg areas on Sunday. Locals said the hailstorm lasted nearly 50 minutes, damaging fruits and vegetables. Many growers claimed they lost this year's entire fruit crop to the strong winds and hail. "I have never seen such a strong hailstorm. It left growers devastated, especially apple growers. This has caused huge damage," said Mohammad Ashraf of Mongam, Kreeri. He added that cherry and other stone fruits also suffered extensive damage. "We now hope the government will compensate us. Otherwise, our losses run into lakhs," he added. Former Baramulla DDC chairperson Safina Baig urged the government to announce a KCC loan waiver. "The government should announce relief in the form of a Kisan Credit Card loan waiver," she said. Assembly member, Baramulla, Javeed Baig said he will take the issue with the government....