A recent hailstorm in the district damaged crops and orchards on 23,367 acres.
According to the agriculture department’s survey, 8008.5 acres of crops and orchards faced 100 per cent devastation, 7,891 acres 75 per cent, 6,347 acres 50 per cent and 1,121 acres faced 25 per cent damage. The department sources said the damaged area included 14,280 acres of wheat crop, 3,473 acres of mango orchards, 3,342 acres of fodder, 328 acres of vegetables, 786 acres of citrus orchards, nine acres of maize and two acres of strawberry in the district.
Progressive Farmer Laique Ali Shiekhana while talking to APP, demanded the government to help the affected farmers so they can cultivate their next crops.
When contacted, Executive District Officer (EDO) Agriculture Shafqat Bhutti said they had submitted data of damaged area to higher authorities to help the affected growers. He hoped the government would provide them a reasonable compensation.