Heavy rains bring relief to farmers after prolonged dry spell in Kashmir

Raja Syed Rather

Srinagar, Jul 29 : The farmers across Kashmir breathed a sigh of relief after heavy rains lashed many parts of the valley on Monday, breaking a prolonged dry spell and intense heat wave that had caused significant distress.

The Meteorological department had predicted rainfall in the region, a much-needed respite after a period of scorching heat and dry conditions that left farmers grappling with severe agricultural losses.

The dry spell had particularly affected paddy fields, where grain crops developed multi-colored marks due to water scarcity and heat stress.

Local farmers from Ganderbal expressed their relief and joy following the heavy rains. “After the rainfall today, we are now happy as the paddy fields and maize fields witnessed water,” one of the farmers told the news agency—, noting the crucial role of the fresh rainfall in reviving their crops.

Ghulam Ahmad, a seasoned farmer from Anantnag said the past few weeks had been extremely stressful for them. “We watched our fields wither and feared the worst. This rain has come as a blessing and has saved our crops,” he said.

Mushtaq Dar, another farmer from Baramulla, emphasized the importance of timely rain, saying that “we rely heavily on natural irrigation. The canals were running dry, and we had no other means to water our fields. This rain has not only saved our current crops but also restored our hope for the season.”

Pertinently, the Agriculture department had warned that without timely rainfall, the Agriculture sector in the valley would face substantial losses due to the critical water needs of the crops.