Hailstorm wreaks havoc in Isa Khel

Severe weather damages crops, infrastructure in Mianwali

MIANWALI:

Hailstorms have ravaged several areas of Isa Khel, causing extensive damage to wheat and vegetable crops, as well as properties of the locals including solar panels.

Residents and community leaders have called for Isa Khel to be declared a disaster area, particularly Union Councils Chapri, Sultan Khel, and Vanjari, urging immediate compensation for affected individuals.

In addition to crop devastation, severe flooding in the Kalabagh canal, known as "Neha Shah," has disrupted communication with neighbouring regions.

The downpour has also led to significant damage to the gas pipeline in Kalabagh, necessitating the suspension of gas supply until repairs are completed.

Furthermore, heavy rainfall has led to the flooding of Nala Baloch and other rivers in Kamer Mishani.

Prior to this, areas like Kandian, Ghandi, and Van Bhacharan experienced hailstorms accompanied by strong winds, resulting in uprooted trees.

The recent spate of stormy weather follows last week's destructive rains and hailstorms in Abakhel, Musa Khel, Chakdala, Bin Hafizji, Samandiwala and surrounding areas.

Reports indicate that up to 60% of the wheat crop in the district has been decimated, leading to a significant drop in market prices and shortages of wheat.

Khalid Masood, a local dealer, highlighted the challenges faced by farmers, citing government-set low prices for wheat and a lack of gunny bags.

He expressed concerns over the detrimental impact on future crops in the absence of effective government policies to support agricultural recovery.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 30^th, 2024.