Dozens of sheep killed in storm in Shopian’s Minimarg

May 31, 2025 by News Desk

Meer Irfan

A violent storm that struck the high-altitude pastures of Rai Nuer in Minimarg, Shopian, during the early hours of Friday has resulted in the death of dozens of sheep, according to local sources.

Eyewitnesses told The Kashmiriyat that the storm hit the area around 3 a.m., causing chaos among a herd of approximately 1,500 sheep. The grazing site is located nearly 25 kilometers from Sedow village in south Kashmir’s Shopian district.

“The storm was very powerful, and panic spread among the sheep,” said Miran, the daughter of Abdul Rashid Chopan, one of the shepherds tending the herd. “My father and uncle, Bashir Ahmad, were inside their tent and couldn’t step out because the wind was too fierce.”

As the storm slightly subsided, the two men ventured out to assess the situation. “They found at least twelve sheep missing,” Miran said.

Locals believe more carcasses may be found as the weather clears and the full extent of the damage becomes visible.

The area, known for seasonal grazing, often sees large herds brought to the highland meadows during summer, making such weather events especially devastating for livestock-reliant families.

“We are not able to contact them, the area doesn’t have good network. We are worried about their well being also,’ said Miran.

When The Kashmiriyat contacted local officials for a response, they appeared unaware of the incident. “We will look into the matter only after the victims provide GI-tagged photographs,” one official said, referring to geotagged images required for official verification.