Meer Irfan
Farmers in several villages of Shopian, including Awneera, Babapora, Durpora, and Zainapora have appealed for urgent government intervention to save their crops from the rapid spread of the ‘Spider Mite’ disease.
The outbreak has exacerbated the already dire situation for farmers, who are struggling with back-to-back agricultural challenges.
Ghulam Ahmed Meer from Haidergund, Shopian, expressing his distress told The Kashmiriyat, “First, it was Leaf Miner, and now this. Our crops are dying, and our livelihoods are in jeopardy.”
Experts have warned that ‘Spider Mite’ is a highly infectious disease that can cause widespread damage to crops if not addressed immediately.
“This disease can cause extensive crop damage and must be curbed to prevent further losses,” an agricultural expert said.
The outbreak follows the recent ‘Leaf Miner’ infestation, which had already affected crops in the region. Now, with the arrival of ‘Spider Mite,’ farmers are left facing consecutive crises.
The farming community, speaking to The Kashmiriyat, said the situation has triggered anxiety as they fear significant economic losses if the disease continues to spread unchecked.
They appealed to the Omar Abdullah-led government to step in and provide immediate support.