Jammu and Kashmir has been plunged into a deep freeze as intense winter weather conditions sweep across the Union Territory. The region is currently grappling with a dual assault of heavy snowfall in the higher reaches and a severe cold wave in the plains, leading to significant disruptions in daily life and transportation.
Snowfall Blankets Highlands, Plains Shiver
The picturesque landscapes of Kashmir's elevated areas have transformed into winter wonderlands, but at a cost. Reports indicate substantial snowfall in renowned locations such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and the famous Amarnath cave. This early and heavy accumulation of snow is a key marker of the season's intensity. Meanwhile, the plains, including the summer capital Srinagar, are enduring a harsh cold wave. On a recent Thursday, Srinagar recorded a bone-chilling minimum temperature of minus 4.2 degrees Celsius, a stark reminder of the winter's bite that is expected to persist.
Transport and Daily Life Thrown into Disarray
The severe weather has severely impacted movement and connectivity. Critical arterial roads have been affected, with the strategic Jammu-Srinagar national highway being closed for traffic due to dangerous conditions. Air travel has also taken a hit; several flights to and from Srinagar airport were either cancelled or delayed due to poor visibility and adverse weather, leaving passengers stranded. The ripple effects are felt by residents facing power fluctuations, challenges in accessing supplies, and a general slowdown in commercial activities.
Official Response and Forecast
Authorities are actively monitoring the situation. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has been instrumental, issuing necessary weather alerts and advisories for the region. Their forecasts suggest that the current pattern of widespread rainfall and snowfall is likely to continue, keeping the administration and disaster response teams on high alert. The focus remains on clearing vital road links, restoring normalcy in air travel, and ensuring the safety and well-being of citizens, especially in the most vulnerable and remote areas.
This spell of intense winter weather underscores the annual challenges faced by the region. While the snowfall is crucial for water resources and agriculture in the coming seasons, its immediate impact brings life to a standstill, testing the preparedness and resilience of both the infrastructure and the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
