Prolonged heatwave, dry spell threatens horticulture sector

JAHANGEER GANAIE

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SRINAGAR: The prolonged heatwave and dry spell in the Valley has left the fruit growers anxious as the prevailing weather conditions have taken toll on the region's horticulture sector, considered as one of the primary sources of livelihood and economic strength in Kashmir.

Over the last two months, Kashmir has witnessed dry and hot weather conditions, severely affecting apple orchards and other fruit bearing trees in the Valley.

Speaking to the news agency, the experts and orchardists fear not only immediate crop damage but long-term consequences that could hit both yield and quality of the fruit equally.