Storms and Hail Cause Nearly ₹5 Crore in Losses to Orchardists in Mandi

Mandi, May 15
Unseasonal weather disturbances triggered by active western disturbances in April and May have disrupted daily life across Himachal Pradesh and inflicted significant damage on fruits, vegetables, and crops. In Mandi district, the horticulture sector has suffered particularly, with losses from thunderstorms, hailstorms, and heavy rain estimated at nearly ₹5 crore, according to the Horticulture Department.

Dr. Sanjay Gupta, Deputy Director of the Mandi Horticulture Department, stated that between April 1 and May 14, orchardists in the district incurred total estimated losses of ₹4.60 crore. Among the worst affected areas was Sundernagar, while Chauntra block reported the least damage.

Detailed loss estimates by region are as follows:

• Sundernagar: ₹2.71 crore

• Karsog: ₹1.02 crore

• Seraj: ₹39.76 lakh

• Balichowki: ₹15.40 lakh

• Gohar: ₹22.62 lakh

• Dharampur: ₹3.72 lakh

• Chauntra: ₹1.86 lakh

• Baldeyan: ₹3.30 lakh

In terms of crop-specific losses:

• Apple orchards suffered damages worth ₹1.76 crore

• Stone fruits such as plums and peaches: ₹2.09 crore

• Mango crops: ₹45.87 lakh

• Greenhouse crops: ₹28.68 lakh

The erratic weather has not only affected yields but also raised concerns among farmers and orchardists about the unpredictability of climate patterns during crucial growing periods. The department is currently assessing the full extent of the damage and exploring possible relief measures for affected growers.