Kashmir’s Cherry Growers Worried Amid Weather Fluctuations
Cherry Production in Kashmir has observed a severe decline this season, raising concerns of cherry growers who are reporting losses of nearly 50% because of changing weather conditions. Factors such as unpredictable temperatures, unseasonal rainfall and shifting climate patterns have impacted the Cherry flowering and fruit development, posing a serious threat to Kashmir’s horticulture sector. The valley is renowned for the production of cherries, and the cherry crop is crucial for the local economy. According to Experts, Cherry plantation requires stable weather conditions on Blooming stage, but the weather disturbance has damaged the flowers during the pollination stage.
Furthermore, Growers in various cherry-producing districts have found smaller yields and poor quality of cherries. Several Cherry farmers are afraid of financial losses since cherries are prone to weather fluctuations. The impact of declining cherry production has affected orchard owners, labourers, traders, transporters and businesses associated with the Cherry supply chains. Moreover, agricultural researchers believe that the situation indicates that huge weather changes have occurred in the valley since the place has witnessed relentless dry winters& unusual snowfall. Cherry farmers are demanding stronger government support, irrigation assistance, and modern protective infrastructure such as hail nets. In addition, Agricultural departments and researchers have focused on the need for climate-resilient farming techniques to reduce future risks.
Besides this, Growers also fear that these frequent weather changes could reduce yields, which could further impact the cherry prices in the horticulture market of the valley.
