A cloudburst in Anantnag’s Chittergul triggered flash floods that devastated agricultural land, orchards, and homes, with local farmers now pressing for immediate government compensation to offset losses.
Extensive Damage to Kashmir’s Farming Economy
The sudden downpour in the Nala Chotihall area of south Kashmir’s Anantnag district caused widespread destruction, submerging paddy fields, apple orchards, and residential properties. Emergency teams from the district administration were deployed to assess the damage and initiate relief measures, but residents emphasize the need for swift financial support.
Farmers Demand Compensation for Crop Losses
Local resident Manzoor Ahmad Khan highlighted the severity of the impact on livelihoods, stating that the floodwaters destroyed both paddy crops and orchards. “All these fields and orchards have been destroyed. We request the government to provide compensation for these trees and crops,” he told ANI. The incident forced evacuations as water entered homes and even surrounded a local mosque.
Rayees Ahmad, another resident, noted that the cloudburst—occurring around 7 PM—diverted a stream, exacerbating damage to horticultural land and infrastructure. He added that the floodwaters also cut off the main road in Chatpal, disrupting movement in the area.
Immediate Assessment Urged for Affected Areas
Ishfaq Ahmad Khan described the panic among residents, with many abandoning their homes overnight due to rising water levels. He stressed the need for a physical verification of losses, particularly for orchards, livestock, and agricultural fields. “People have suffered a heavy loss; it is not a small matter,” he said, urging authorities to prioritize assessments in Chittergul, Chaklipora, and Brimmer.
The district administration has dispatched teams to evaluate the situation and implement preventive measures, but the financial and operational burden on affected farmers remains unresolved.
