As Kashmir's harshest winter period, Chilai Kalan, concludes with minimal snowfall or rain, agricultural and horticulture experts express concerns over potential adverse effects in the coming months if significant snowfall doesn't occur in early February.
The prolonged dry spell since December has left the landscape dry and riverbeds parched, raising worries about agriculture, horticulture, and water supply. With only light snowfall and rain in recent days, experts emphasize the importance of major snowfall or rain in the coming weeks to mitigate the impact on crops and water resources.
Chowdhary Mohammad Iqbal, Director of Agriculture, stresses the critical period ahead, stating that the growth of standing crops and upcoming crops will be severely affected if the dry spell persists. Farmers are eagerly awaiting precipitation, as the absence of significant snowfall by February 10 could have direct repercussions on crop yield.
Global climatic phenomena like El Niño and fewer western disturbances have contributed to the extended dry spell, exacerbating concerns over water scarcity and agricultural productivity. The deficit in precipitation, with only 13 mm received in December compared to the average 60 mm, underscores the urgency for substantial snowfall or rain to mitigate the impact on Kashmir's agriculture and water resources.
Source: www.hindustantimes.com
