Hailstorm Wreaks Havoc in Upper Shimla; Apple and Stone Fruit Orchards Suffer Major Losses

Shimla, April 21: A severe hailstorm accompanied by heavy rainfall late last night has caused significant damage to apple orchards and other fruit crops in the upper regions of Shimla district. Key apple-producing areas such as Theog, Narkanda, Kotkhai, Rohru, Jubbal, Chopal, and Rampur have borne the brunt of the unseasonal weather, dealing a serious blow to local fruit growers.

According to orchardists, this year’s fruit production was already under stress due to erratic rainfall and fluctuating temperatures. The latest hailstorm has only compounded their worries, damaging crops like apples, plums, peaches, and apricots.

Harish Chauhan, orchardist and President of the Himachal Pradesh Fruit, Vegetable, and Flower Growers Association, expressed deep concern over the extent of the destruction. “This calamity has been devastating for growers. In most parts of Upper Shimla, fruit trees were directly hit by hailstones. Not only has the quality of the fruit deteriorated, but a steep decline in production is also expected. In several orchards, even the branches of trees have broken,” he said.

Chauhan has urged the state government to implement a robust and farmer-centric crop insurance policy to protect the interests of growers during such disasters. He emphasized the need for a crop-specific and region-wise approach to ensure fair and adequate compensation for losses.

The hailstorm has also led to a noticeable drop in temperature across the hills, which could further hamper crop development and growth in the coming days.