Miscreants Axe 3 Dozen Fruit-bearing Trees in North Kashmir; Cognisance Taken, Says Official

Murtaza Mushtaq

Srinagar: At least three dozen fruit-bearing trees were chopped down by unknown miscreants on intervening Sunday and Monday night in Haril village in Mawer area of Handwara sub-district, reports and victims said.

Reports reaching Alfaaz – The Words, said that three dozen fruit-bearing trees were on Monday morning seen lying chopped on ground. The gravity of the incident has caused widespread anguish among the owners and locals alike, with demands for immediate action against the perpetrators.

A victim said that they have been jolted by the act. “We were informed late last night that our orchard had been chopped, and once we visited to check out we found that at least thirty five trees, all fruit-bearing, were lying on ground chopped, mutilated and lacerated.”

“We have reported the matter to concerned authorities and hope that the matter is enquired into and action as warranted against the miscreants be taken at an earliest,” the victim said.

Meanwhile, locals in the areas have joined the affected families and urged the authorities to take the strongest possible action against those involved in the evil and unholy act.

When contacted, a police official told Alfaaz – The Words, that they have taken cognisance of the incident. “A police team is already assessing the damage caused in the incident, and details as they emerge will be shared accordingly,” the official said.