Kangra Mangoes Face Crop Loss Amidst Unseasonal Weather

Kangra district's mango orchards are bracing for a significant production loss, estimated at 25-30%, due to unseasonal hailstorms, gusty winds, and fluctuating temperatures during critical growth stages. The anticipated yield for this year is between 17,000 to 18,000 metric tonnes, a considerable decrease from the typical 29,000 metric tonnes. This adverse weather phenomenon occurred during the crucial flowering and fruit-setting periods in March and April. The horticulture department is advising farmers on essential practices such as maintaining orchard moisture and implementing recommended spray schedules to mitigate further disease incidence.

This loss extends beyond mangoes, with the horticulture department also predicting a 15% reduction in Litchi production, estimating it at 4,321 MT against a normal of 4,995 MT. Various citrus varieties are also expected to face a 5% crop loss. Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) in Shimla forecasts rising mercury across Himachal Pradesh over the next few days, with dry weather expected to prevail until May 10. A fresh Western Disturbance is anticipated to affect the Western Himalayan region from May 10, bringing rain across the state from May 11 to 13, with potential light snowfall in higher reaches.