*Apple orchard vandalization: Affected family pins hope on SSP Pulwama after police take cognizance*
Pulwama, Dec 15, A family from Sonasambil village in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district has made a fervent appeal to the Senior Superintendent of Police Pulwama, seeking identification and strict punishment of miscreants who allegedly vandalised their apple orchard by cutting down dozens of trees.
According to the family, at least 25 to 35 apple trees were cut down by unknown persons, causing substantial economic loss. The orchard, they said, was a key source of livelihood, and the incident has left them distressed and seeking justice.
The family said they immediately approached the police after discovering the damage. Police have taken cognizance of the incident and initiated preliminary action, raising hopes among the affected family members that those responsible will be identified.
“We want to know who cut these trees and why. We are simple locals and this orchard is our only means of survival,” a family member said, urging the authorities to conduct a thorough investigation.
The incident has also triggered concern among inhabitants of the area, who fear that such acts of vandalism, if left unchecked, could threaten the safety of orchards and livelihoods across the region.
Police sources said further investigation is underway to ascertain the circumstances and motive behind the act. The family has appealed to the SSP Pulwama to personally monitor the case and ensure exemplary action against the perpetrators to deter similar incidents in the future.
