Police in Sopore, Jammu and Kashmir, have registered an FIR against miscreants who chopped down apple trees in an orchard, causing significant damage to the owner. The incident, which occurred in the Bohripora area of Sopore, involved the destruction of around 55 high-density apple plants nearing harvest. The orchard owner, Qalbi Hussain Mir, estimated a loss of Rs 5 to 8 lakh and emphasized the orchard’s importance as their main income source.
The family owning the orchard reported that the vandalism took place at night when unidentified individuals entered the orchard and deliberately cut down several apple trees. Mir highlighted the severity of the act, noting that they were expecting a yield of nearly 800 to 900 boxes of apples this season. Seeking justice, the family has urged the police to identify and take strict action against those responsible for the destruction.
Described as ‘Chota London’ (Small London) in the past due to its apple orchards, Sopore continues to rely heavily on horticulture for livelihood. Despite urbanization, the Sopore sub-division remains predominantly covered by apple orchards, supporting numerous families dependent on horticulture for sustenance. The horticulture sector plays a vital role in Jammu and Kashmir’s economy, contributing over Rs 12,000 crore annually and employing around 33 lakh individuals, with apples being a primary product.
