Kashmir Valley Gripped by Fresh Snowfall: Travel Disrupted, Spirits High
White rooftops, silent runways, and locked highways marked the scene in Kashmir valley on Tuesday as fresh snowfall swept through the region. This significant weather event led to the closure of the crucial Srinagar–Jammu national highway, cancellation of all flights, and left hundreds of tourists stranded. However, amidst the disruptions, residents and visitors alike celebrated Srinagar's first white morning of the season, embracing the winter wonderland.
Winter Returns with Force: Snow Stops Life and Steals Hearts
Kashmir's winter made a powerful comeback, reminding everyone why snow in this picturesque region both halts daily life and captivates hearts. A second western disturbance draped the Kashmir valley and Pir Panjal ranges in a fresh layer of snow, reaching Srinagar city in central Kashmir and the mountain corridors that connect the region to Jammu.
Authorities were forced to halt all air traffic at Srinagar airport due to unsafe runway conditions caused by the adverse weather. An airport official stated, "Due to adverse weather and continuous snowfall, the runway is not available for safe aircraft operations. All flights to and from Srinagar have been cancelled for the day." Passengers were urged to check with their airlines as crews continuously monitor the evolving conditions.
Transportation Links Severed Across the Region
Srinagar city itself received approximately 5 inches of snowfall from morning till afternoon, with upper reaches and surrounding areas experiencing even heavier accumulation. The impact on transportation was severe and widespread:
- NH44, the vital artery connecting Kashmir to Jammu about 300km to the south, was closed in both directions after heavy snow in Banihal and Ramban.
- Mughal Road, the alternative route to Poonch district roughly 100km southwest of Srinagar, was also shut down.
- Sinthan Pass, linking the valley to Kishtwar in Chenab valley about 130km southeast, faced similar closures.
Traffic police issued advisories urging tourists and locals to follow official travel guidelines. Tour operators were specifically asked not to send cabs onto the highway due to lack of facilities amid accumulating snow. Additionally, trekkers and residents were cautioned against venturing into higher reaches due to elevated avalanche risks.
Weather Patterns and Forecast: More Snow Expected
This latest disruption followed a brief reopening of flights on Sunday after last week's extreme weather conditions. That previous system brought winds gusting up to 155kmph and significant snowfall, blocking highways, cutting power, closing schools, and damaging roofs across parts of Kashmir, Pir Panjal, and Chenab valley.
Weather officials anticipate some improvement from Tuesday evening, with light rain possible at certain locations on January 28th and dry conditions likely to persist through January 31st. However, another western disturbance is forecast to arrive on the evening of February 1st, bringing widespread rain and heavy snowfall likely over higher elevations of Kashmir and Pir Panjal regions.
Joy Amidst Disruption: Residents and Tourists Embrace the Snow
For many residents in Srinagar who had remained untouched by last week's snowfall, Tuesday morning brought pure delight. Social media platforms quickly filled with photographs showcasing white lanes and houseboats dusted with snow along the iconic Dal Lake. In Gulmarg, the popular ski resort located about 50km west of Srinagar, fresh snow added to last week's base, attracting more tourists and skiers eager to experience the enhanced winter sports conditions.
Despite the travel inconveniences and safety concerns, the fresh snowfall has reinvigorated the winter spirit across Kashmir valley, creating both challenges for authorities and cherished moments for those who call this region home or choose to visit during its most magical season.
