A fresh spell of snowfall has transformed the landscapes of Jammu and Kashmir, bringing immense joy to tourists and locals alike. This winter spectacle coincides with a forecast from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting a cold wave in several parts of North India, including Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh.
Winter Wonderland Returns to Kashmir Valley
The higher reaches of Kashmir, including the famous tourist destinations of Gulmarg and Pahalgam, received a fresh blanket of snow on Monday. This has significantly improved the scenic beauty and revived the winter tourism season, which had seen a sluggish start. The plains of Kashmir, including the summer capital Srinagar, experienced light to moderate rainfall, adding to the chill.
The minimum temperature in Srinagar settled at 0.8 degrees Celsius, while the famous ski-resort town of Gulmarg recorded a low of minus 3.2 degrees Celsius. The snowfall has not only created picturesque views but also raised hopes for better water availability in the coming spring and summer months.
IMD Issues Cold Wave Alert for Northwest India
While Kashmir enjoys the snow, the IMD has issued a warning for a cold wave in parts of northwest India. The weather office stated that cold wave conditions are very likely in isolated pockets of Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh on January 30th and 31st.
This prediction indicates a significant drop in minimum temperatures across these regions. Residents are advised to take necessary precautions against the biting cold. The IMD's forecast suggests that the winter chill is intensifying across the northern plains, following the recent western disturbances affecting the Himalayan region.
Impact on Tourism and Daily Life
The fresh snowfall has been a boon for the tourism industry in Jammu and Kashmir. Hotel bookings are seeing an uptick as tourists flock to experience the snow-clad mountains and engage in winter sports. The local economy, which heavily relies on tourism, is receiving a much-needed boost.
However, the cold wave alert for Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh signals challenging conditions for the homeless and those working outdoors. Authorities in these states are likely to open more night shelters and distribute winter supplies. The drop in temperature can also impact agricultural fields, particularly the standing Rabi crops, if frost forms.
In summary, North India is experiencing a sharp contrast in winter weather. While Jammu and Kashmir revels in tourist-friendly snowfall, the adjoining plains are bracing for a severe cold spell. The IMD continues to monitor the situation, and further updates are expected as the winter season progresses.
