ALPURI: Torrential rains coupled with hailstorms for the third consecutive day damaged orchards and disrupted daily life across the Shangla district.
Reports said that hailstorm damaged fruit-bearing trees, knocking off blossoms.Farmers said the loss of flowers could reduce production, posing a major financial setback for the agricultural community. The extreme weather also led to a sharp drop in temperatures, with icy winds sweeping through the valley. Light snowfall was reported in upper mountainous areas, further intensifying the cold.
Key roads, including routes from Alpuri to Bisham and Alpuri to Swat, were affected by landslides and falling boulders, disrupting traffic flow. Several link roads remain blocked, although district authorities managed to restore traffic on some main arteries after emergency clearance operations.
Heavy rainfall increased water flow in streams, waterfalls, natural springs, and local waterways. In some places, water inundated roads, causing difficulties for commuters.District administration officials said restoration work was underway, with heavy machinery deployed to clear debris and reopen affected roads as soon as possible.Meanwhile, farmers urged the government to compensate them for the losses caused by the hailstorm and to announce a relief package to support those affected.
