Bandipora, April 6 -- MLA Bandipora, Nizamuddin Bhat, has expressed deep concern over the widespread damage caused by a sudden and intense hailstorm that struck several upper reaches of the district.

The affected areas include Arin, Dardpora, Sumlar, Chuntimulla, Kudara, Shokbaba, Bapora and Surinder villages of Block Arin, along with parts of Banakoot Block in the Bandipora constituency, where the hailstorm caused significant destruction to agricultural fields and horticultural assets.

The MLA, in a statement, said that the extent of damage to standing crops, orchards and early-season produce is deeply alarming, especially at a critical stage when fruit-bearing plants are yet to fully set.

"This untimely weather event has dealt a seve...