Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh Embrace Winter Wonderland as Fresh Snow Blankets the Region
Visuals from across the Kashmir Valley have captured residents celebrating the arrival of snowfall, while tourists were seen enjoying the snow-capped mountains and streets. However, continuous rain and snowfall have also significantly disrupted normal life across the Valley.
Srinagar Witnesses First Snowfall of the Season
Srinagar experienced its first snowfall of the season, marking the end of a prolonged dry spell and ushering in full-fledged winter conditions. Several areas across Kashmir received abundant snowfall, including Budgam district and south Kashmir’s Pulwama and Shopian. In the Jammu region, Banihal town in Ramban district, along with the plains and upper reaches of Bhalesa in Doda district, also recorded their first snowfall after nearly three months of dry weather.
Weather Forecast and Disruptions
The Meteorological Department has forecast that the current weather system will continue until Friday evening. There is a possibility of heavy rain or snow with gusty winds or hailstorm over a few districts of the Pir-Panjal range, Chenab valley, and south Kashmir.
Flight Cancellations and Airport Advisory
At least 20 flights have been cancelled to and from Kashmir due to heavy snowfall, severely disrupting air connectivity. Srinagar Airport announced its closure due to continuous snowfall and accumulation of snow. All flight operations at Srinagar Airport for the day have been cancelled in the interest of passenger safety.
The Airport Authority of India (AAI) urged passengers to contact their respective airlines for updates and re-accommodation. IndiGo also issued an advisory informing passengers that flight operations have been halted, which may lead to extended wait times both onboard and on the ground.
Highways Shut and Schools Closed
Fresh snowfall led to the closure of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44), bringing traffic to a complete halt. The Mughal Road, Srinagar-Leh National Highway, and the Mughal and Sinthan roads were also closed due to snow accumulation. Authorities advised commuters to avoid travel until roads are cleared and declared safe.
Authorities ordered the closure of all schools in Rajouri, Poonch, and Kathua districts. Police have provided dedicated helpline numbers at all district headquarters to assist people amid the weather conditions. The Mata Vaishno Devi yatra was suspended after the shrine atop the Trikuta hills received its first snowfall of the season.
Power Supply Severely Affected
Due to windstorm and heavy snowfall, several areas were severely affected by power cuts. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah stated that power supply across the Valley was badly hit due to heavy snowfall and gusty winds. Efforts are underway to restore electricity, but extensive tree falls on power lines and strong winds are posing major challenges.
Himachal Pradesh Receives Fresh Snowfall
Parts of Himachal Pradesh also received fresh snowfall on Friday. Shimla saw the first snowfall of the season, breaking a three-month dry spell. Tourist destinations, including Manali and Chopal, also experienced snowfall. The Shimla administration has issued an advisory, asking people not to drive until the weather clears.
The transformation of Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh into winter wonderlands has brought joy to locals and tourists alike, but it has also highlighted the challenges posed by severe weather conditions.
