Srinagar, May 02: The Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) has announced power shutdown in Kashmir parts in forthcoming days.

In a statement issued, Chief Engineer, Distribution, KPDCL said that the shutdown of 33 KV Shamsipora Tapline will be observed due to which power supply to Shamsipora, Sudsanoo, Turka, Tachloo and adjoining areas will be affected from 10 AM to 03 PM on 04 & 06 May 2026.

Similarly, shutdown of 132/ 33 KV, 100 MVA GIS Khanyar will be observed due to which power supply to Nowshera, Raja Colony, Industrial Estate BAMK, Zadibal, Hawal, Botakadal, BSNL, Gilkadal, Kathi Darwaza, Rainawari Psychiatric Hospital, PHE, Central Jail, Saida Kadal and adjoining areas will be affected from 09 AM to 04 PM on 04 & 06 May 2026.

Likewise, shutdown of 33 KV KP Bagh line and 33 KV Exhibition line will be observed due to which power supply to KP Bagh, Soiteng, PHE, Kursoo Rajbagh, Rajbagh bund, Gogjibagh, Museum, Jawahar Nagar, Mehjoor Nagar, Rambagh, Old Barzullah and adjoining areas will be affected from 10 AM to 3 PM  on 05, 11 & 14 May 2026.

Similarly, shutdown of 33 KV Nehalpora Markundal line and 33 KV Nihalpora HMT line will be observed due to which power supply to Markundal, Naidkhai, Sumbal, Gund Boon, Shadipora, Trigam, Mirgund, Singhpora, Kalsari, HMT, SKUAST, SSM college and  adjoining areas will be affected from 9:30 to 3:30 PM on 05 May 2026.

Kulgam, May 02: A severe hailstorm accompanied by heavy rainfall lashed the Kund area of Kulgam district on Saturday, causing extensive damage to orchards and standing crops, local residents reported.

According to eyewitnesses, the sudden spell of inclement weather struck the area in the afternoon, with large hailstones and intense rainfall battering fruit-bearing trees and agricultural fields. Apple orchards, which form the backbone of the local economy, are feared to have suffered significant losses at a crucial stage of the growing season.

Farmers expressed concern over the scale of destruction, stating that the hailstorm has not only damaged blossoms but may also impact the overall yield this year. “The hailstorm came without warning and lasted long enough to ruin a large portion of our orchards,” a local grower said.

Residents have urged the administration to conduct an immediate assessment of the damage and provide compensation to the affected farmers. They also called for the implementation of preventive measures to safeguard crops against such weather events in the future.

Officials are yet to release an official estimate of the losses. (KNC)

Srinagar, May 02: National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Saturday said Kashmir belongs to all communities, including Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs, and called for collective efforts to rebuild trust and ensure peace in the region.

Addressing a gathering here, Abdullah, as per KNS, urged people to reject hatred and divisions, saying unity is essential for progress. He called for prayers for the safe return of those who have left their homes, describing their absence as a significant loss.

He said differences based on religion weaken society and stressed that people must live and work together to move forward.

Referring to unity in diversity, Abdullah said the country can progress only by upholding this principle. He also invoked the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi, urging people to follow the path of truth and non-violence.

The NC leader said mistrust between regions must end, adding that peace and stability can be ensured only through cooperation and mutual understanding. (KNS)

Srinagar, May 02: The 96th death anniversary of the eminent personality of the Kashmir Valley, distinguished Islamic scholar, and former President of Anjuman Nusrat-ul-Islam, Mirwaiz of Kashmir Maulana Ahmadullah Shah (RA), was observed today with deep reverence and respect.

On this occasion, the President of the Anjuman, Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr. Molvi Mohammad Umar Farooq, paid rich tributes to the towering legacy of the departed leader, recalling his immense religious, preaching, social, and spiritual contributions. He described him as a true ‘Ashiq-e-Rasool (SAW), a devoted adherent of Sunnah, Shariah, and Tariqah, an exemplary guide, and a symbol of humility, piety, and noble character.

Mirwaiz said that the late Maulana Ahmadullah Shah (RA) holds the distinction of being among the pioneers in Kashmir who raised their voice against oppression and stood firmly for the restoration of the political and social rights of the people. He was also among the signatories to a historic memorandum submitted to the Viceroy of India. For his principled and courageous stand, he had to endure severe hardships and repression at the hands of the authorities, who sought through various means to silence him.

Meanwhile, a special function was held at Islamia Higher Secondary School, Rajouri Kadal, where Director Nusrat-ul-Islam, Maulana M. S. Rehman Shams, Principal Manzoor Ahmad, and members of the teaching faculty paid glowing tributes to the late Mirwaiz. They highlighted his invaluable educational contributions to the Anjuman, his reformative vision, and the establishment of Islamia Oriental College under his patronage. They described him as a visionary leader and an exemplary personality whose legacy continues to inspire generations.

Furthermore, a grand Qur’an recitation gathering was organized at Islamia Oriental College for esal-e-sawab of the departed. Special prayers were offered for the late Mirwaiz, as well as for the revered founder of the Anjuman, Allama Rasool Shah (RA), his esteemed associates, former office bearers, members, and well-wishers of the organization.