Srinagar, June 2 -- Srinagar- Kashmir's horticulture sector, the backbone of the Valley's rural economy, is reeling under the impact of repeated hailstorms, gusty winds, and erratic weather conditions that have caused extensive damage to fruit orchards across several districts.

Growers and traders have expressed deep concern over mounting losses, warning that the livelihoods of lakhs of families dependent on horticulture are at stake.

The latest spell of severe weather struck on the evening of May 30, when intense hailstorms accompanied by strong winds battered large parts of South Kashmir, particularly Pulwama, Shopian and Kulgam districts. Several horticulture belts in central and north Kashmir also witnessed widespread destruction, l...