Waqar Manzoor
Rafiabad, May 23: Senior PDP leader Altaf Malik on Friday visited several hailstorm-affected areas of Rafiabad to assess the damage caused to orchards and agricultural fields following recent adverse weather conditions.
During his visit, Malik interacted with growers, farmers, and local residents who informed him about the extensive losses suffered due to the hailstorm. He expressed deep concern over the destruction of fruit crops and standing agricultural produce, stating that the farming community has been pushed into severe distress.
Expressing solidarity with the affected families, Altaf Malik assured them that their genuine concerns would be strongly raised before the concerned authorities. He emphasized the urgent need for immediate assessment of losses and adequate compensation to the affected growers and farmers.
He also demanded the effective implementation of crop insurance schemes, market intervention schemes, and waiver of Kisan Credit Card (KCC) loans to provide much-needed relief to the farming community.
Malik said that horticulture and agriculture are the backbone of the local economy in Rafiabad and other parts of Kashmir, and the government must take swift measures to safeguard the livelihood of farmers facing repeated weather-related calamities.
He urged the administration to act without delay and ensure timely financial assistance and support mechanisms for all affected families.
