LORALAI: A Loralai severe hailstorm destroys standing crops in parts of Mekhtar Tehsil, causing significant damage to agricultural fields and leaving local farmers facing heavy financial losses.
The storm struck the Zarah Nali Killi area of Mekhtar Tehsil during the afternoon, with strong winds and severe weather damaging several acres of standing and fully grown crops. Farmers say the destruction has come at a critical time, as they were expecting to harvest their crops soon.
Loralai Severe Hailstorm Destroys Standing Crops in Mekhtar
The sudden storm reportedly caused widespread damage to agricultural land in the area. Several farmers have seen their ready-to-harvest crops flattened or destroyed, potentially putting their seasonal income at risk.
Local farmers said they had invested their savings in cultivating the crops and are now concerned about how they will manage the next agricultural season.
“We had invested all our savings in these crops.”
Because the affected area is remote, farmers say the full extent of the losses has yet to be determined. A detailed field survey will be required to establish the total area affected and assess the financial damage.
Farmers Seek Immediate Government Assistance
Affected farmers have appealed to the Government of Balochistan and the Agriculture Department to take immediate steps to assess the damage and provide assistance.
Their key demands include:
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An immediate visit by government officials to the affected area.
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A transparent and comprehensive survey of crop losses.
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Financial assistance for farmers who have suffered major losses.
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Support with seeds and fertilizer for the next planting season.
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An emergency relief package for affected farming families.
Farmers say financial assistance is particularly important because many affected households may struggle to purchase seeds, fertilizer and other agricultural inputs for the next crop.
Call for a Transparent Damage Assessment
Farmers have urged the authorities to conduct a transparent assessment so that assistance can be provided to those whose crops have been damaged. They also called for the affected areas of Mekhtar to be included in any emergency agricultural relief measures.
Also Read: Weather Update: Rain, Strong Winds Forecast Across Balochistan
The storm has added to the difficulties faced by farmers in the remote parts of Loralai, where agriculture remains an important source of livelihood for local communities.
Farmers are now waiting for the relevant authorities to assess the damage and determine what relief and support can be provided to help them recover their losses.
