Cold weather tamps down Panjsher walnut yield

PARAKH (Pajhwok): The walnut yield in central Panjsher province has fallen to around 200 metric tonnes this year, down from 235 metric tonnes last year, says the Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock Department.

Agriculture Director Eng. Zakir Ahmadi told Pajhwok Afghan News that the decline in the walnut harvest was caused by hailstorms and cold weather in the flowering phase.

He added Panjsher’s highest walnut produce came from the districts of Abshar, Rukh, Dara, and Anaba.

Farmers in Panjsher also attribute the decline in the walnut harvest to the cold weather and hailstorms.

Mohiuddin, a grower from the  Chamalwardak village of Rukha district, explained: "The cold weather and continuous hailstorms in the spring caused the walnut blossoms to perish, resulting in a reduced harvest."

Sher Padsha, another farmer from the same village, shared a similar view, saying: "Compared to previous years, our walnut harvest has decreased due to rain, hailstorm a nd cold weather."

According to information from the Department of Agriculture and Livestock, 215 hectares of land across the province are dedicated to walnut cultivation.

sa/mud