Harsh Cold Ahead: PAU issues warning for farmers and horticulture growers
Babushahi Bureau
Ludhiana (Punjab), January 13, 2026: Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has issued a warning about an intensifying winter spell in the state over the coming days, urging farmers and horticulture growers to remain alert and take preventive measures to protect crops and livestock.
Dr. (Mrs) P.K. Khingra, Head of the Department of Climate Change and Agricultural Meteorology at PAU, said that both day and night temperatures have remained below normal across Punjab for the past several days. She noted that minimum temperatures have dipped below 4°C at many locations, indicating the onset of severe cold conditions.
Citing forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Dr. Khingra informed that severe cold wave conditions, accompanied by dense fog and ground frost, are likely in the coming days. She cautioned that such extreme weather could adversely affect field crops, orchards, vegetable crops, and livestock.
“Vegetable crops and newly planted orchards are particularly vulnerable to cold wave and frost,” Dr. Khingra warned. She advised horticulture growers to ensure light irrigation to help maintain soil temperature, apply mulches, and install protection barriers—especially on the north-west side—to safeguard tender crops and fruits.
Urging farmers to regularly monitor their fields, she emphasized timely intervention to prevent crop damage. Dr. Khingra also advised dairy farmers to keep animals indoors during extreme cold spells and provide them with nutrient-rich feed, as prolonged exposure to low temperatures could severely impact animal health.
PAU has appealed to the farming community to follow these advisory measures closely to minimize losses during the expected harsh winter conditions.