Storm, hail damage crops across Uttarakhand; farmers fear losses

Dehradun: Thunderstorms, hail and gusty winds swept across parts of Uttarakhand, damaging vegetables, fruits and wheat, and leaving farmers worried about crop yields and income. Crops nearing harvest, or in growing and ripening stages, were affected as the weather shifted from dry conditions to unseasonal rain.In the plains, including Udham Singh Nagar and Haridwar, farmers who were yet to harvest mature wheat reported flattened fields and moisture exposure. “Most farmers in our area had completed wheat harvesting, but some of us were still waiting,” said Harvinder Kaur, 46, from Udham Singh Nagar. “This sudden wet spell has caused our crops to lodge. It appears difficult for them to recover, and losses are likely,” she said.In the hill districts, growers of cash crops and fruits also reported damage. In parts of Uttarkashi and on the outskirts of Dehradun, farmers and orchardists said some trees were uprooted or snapped, damaging both trees and fruit. “My tomato and capsicum crops have been affected by the hailstorm,” said Bhairav Dutt Thapliyal, a farmer from Tehri. “Earlier, there was no rain, and now this untimely rainfall is affecting both quality and yield. These weather anomalies are lowering our income,” he said.Farmers in Yamuna valley, particularly in Kharadi and Gagtadi, reported damage to standing crops. Many said crops at a crucial stage of maturity were hit by hail, with fruit falling due to the impact.Surjeet Rawat, a farmer from Chamoli, highlighted the timing of the weather event. “The hail and strong winds have come at the wrong time,” he said. “With rising cultivation costs, such events disrupt our agricultural planning.”Taking note of possible losses, Uttarakhand agriculture minister Ganesh Joshi directed officials to conduct ground inspections in affected areas and submit a report for further action. On Sunday, agriculture department officials conducted field inspections in areas such as Kyarkuli Bhatta, Rikholi and Bhitarli to assess the situation.