Srinagar, Jan 05: Following a dip in temperatures, higher reaches of Kashmir, including Gulmarg, Sonamarg, and other elevated areas, experienced light to moderate snowfall, while the plains saw light rain on Sunday. The meteorological department has forecasted that the prevailing weather will continue for the next 24 hours in the region.
Meanwhile, all flights at Srinagar International Airport were cancelled on Sunday due to dense fog, which reduced visibility to levels that made it impossible for planes to take off or land. Director of Srinagar Airport, Javaid Anjum, told Rising Kashmir that all scheduled flights were cancelled due to low visibility caused by the fog. “All scheduled flights for the day were cancelled as low visibility made it impossible for aircraft to land or take off,” he said.
The Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy snowfall for Jammu and Kashmir and issued a “yellow alert,” forecasting thunderstorms, light rainfall, and squalls in various districts.
Director of MeT Srinagar, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, told Rising Kashmir that under the influence of Western disturbances, light snowfall occurred at higher reaches, while rain lashed the plains on Sunday. He added that upper reaches, including Sonamarg, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sadhna Top, Razdan Pass, Sinthan Top, Peer Ki Gali, Kilshay Top, and other areas, received moderate snowfall. Currently, snowfall is ongoing over some upper reaches and isolated locations in the plains. Dr. Mukhtar also mentioned that these weather conditions are expected to persist until the morning of January 6. From January 7 to 10, the weather is forecasted to remain generally cloudy, with mostly dry conditions.
Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, informed Rising Kashmir that snow clearance machines have been deployed across the valley, and all vital roads will be cleared once the snowfall stops. “Once the snowfall stops, all roads will be cleared. We have already cleared main links, including those to hospitals, main markets, and other essential roads,” he said.
In addition to the snow clearance machines from the Mechanical Department, the Public Works Department (PWD) has also deployed additional machines specifically hired for quick snow clearance.
Following the snowfall, the Mughal Road and Gurez-Bandipora road were closed for all traffic until further notice. The Gurez area received approximately 7-8 inches of snow, and ongoing snowfall is expected to increase this accumulation, prompting the closure of the road to all traffic.
According to the traffic police department, traffic is currently moving from both sides on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway. However, there is overcast weather in the Banihal and Qazigund sectors, with a forecast of snowfall. Travelers are advised to exercise caution and check the status with traffic police before setting out.
Vehicular movement has been stopped on the Srinagar-Leh highway due to fresh snowfall. Commuters are advised not to travel on Mughal Road until the weather improves and the road is cleared.
In response to the ongoing snowfall and hazardous road conditions, Jammu and Kashmir Police swiftly provided assistance to stranded commuters and patients at various locations across the valley. This initiative ensured timely relief and safety for those affected by the adverse weather.
A police spokesperson said that special assistance teams have been deployed at key points throughout the valley. These teams are equipped to provide immediate aid to vehicles and commuters affected by slippery roads and heavy snowfall. “The public is advised to exercise caution while traveling in such weather conditions. For emergencies or assistance, citizens are encouraged to dial 112. The Police have established 24/7 helpline numbers to cater to those in need during this period,” he said.
The night temperature in the valley dipped sharply, with Kokernag town in south Kashmir recording a low of minus 8.1 degrees Celsius. Srinagar settled at a low of minus 2.5 degrees Celsius, Gulmarg recorded minus 4, and Pahalgam saw a low of minus 3.2 degrees Celsius. Qazigund registered minus 3.6 degrees Celsius, while Konibal in Pampore recorded minus 3.5 degrees. Kupwara recorded minus 2.8 degrees Celsius, and Kokernag was the coldest place in the valley at minus 8.1 degrees Celsius.
