Heavy Snowfall Continues to Paralyze Jammu & Kashmir, Key Highway Remains Closed
Heavy snowfall has continued unabated across the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, causing significant disruptions to daily life and transportation. The persistent weather conditions have led to the closure of the crucial Srinagar-Jammu National Highway for a second consecutive day, severely impacting connectivity and essential services.
Highway Closure and Travel Disruptions
The Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, a vital lifeline connecting the Kashmir Valley with the rest of India, has been shut down due to heavy snow accumulation and poor visibility. Authorities have confirmed that the closure is necessary to ensure public safety, as the treacherous conditions pose a high risk of accidents and landslides. This marks the second day of the shutdown, with no immediate signs of reopening as snowfall continues to intensify in the region.
Travelers and commuters are facing immense hardships, with hundreds of vehicles stranded along the route. The disruption has also affected the movement of essential goods, including food supplies and medical aid, raising concerns about potential shortages in remote areas. Local officials are urging people to avoid unnecessary travel and stay indoors until the weather improves.
Impact on Daily Life and Infrastructure
The heavy snowfall has blanketed major towns and cities in Jammu and Kashmir, including Srinagar and Jammu, leading to power outages, water supply issues, and damage to infrastructure. Schools and government offices have been closed as a precautionary measure, while emergency services are on high alert to respond to any incidents. The Indian Meteorological Department has issued warnings for more snowfall in the coming days, exacerbating the situation.
Residents are grappling with freezing temperatures, with many areas reporting sub-zero conditions. The snowfall has also disrupted air and rail services, further isolating the region. Efforts are underway to clear snow from roads and restore normalcy, but progress is slow due to the continuous downpour of snow.
Authorities' Response and Safety Measures
Local authorities and disaster management teams are actively monitoring the situation, deploying snow-clearing machinery and personnel to critical areas. They have set up emergency shelters and relief camps for stranded travelers, providing food, water, and medical assistance. Officials are also advising residents to stock up on essentials and stay updated with weather forecasts.
In summary, the heavy snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir has led to the prolonged closure of the Srinagar-Jammu Highway, disrupting travel and daily life. With more snow predicted, authorities are working to mitigate the impact, but challenges remain as the region braces for continued adverse weather conditions.
