Keller, Dec 9: Unidentified persons allegedly vandalised an orchard in Check Keller area during the intervening night, cutting down around 35 to 45 Italian apple plants and causing substantial loss to the affected family.
Officials said the orchard belongs to Rayees Wani of Check Keller, who discovered the damage in the morning. The apple plants had reportedly been deliberately cut, rendering them completely damaged and leading to a significant economic setback for the orchardist.
The incident triggered outrage among locals, who strongly condemned the act and described it as a deliberate attempt to harm livelihood. The villagers told the news agency Kashmir News Trust that such incidents not only cause financial losses to individual families but also create a sense of insecurity among orchard owners in the area.
Police have taken cognizance of the incident and registered a formal case. Officials said necessary legal action will be taken once formal proceedings are initiated. [KNT]
