Gurez residents prepare for annual winter migration

Bandipora, October 27: As the winter season approaches, many residents of the secluded Gurez valley in North Kashmir’s Bandipora district are preparing for their traditional annual migration, a response to the border valley’s harsh winter conditions that can cut them off for over six months.
Nestled along the Line of Control, the Gurez valley faces heavy snowfall during the winter, leading to its isolation from the rest of the world.
Bandipora-Gurez road, primarily blocked by immense snowdrifts at the Razdan Pass, is the main reason behind this isolation.
In light of these challenging weather conditions, residents are commencing their migration to more accessible areas of the Kashmir valley.
Ghulam Nabi, a local told Rising Kashmir that they have started preparing for migration to Bandipora as the harsh winter is about to start, during which the area will become cut off from the rest of the valley.
For many, migration is a necessity. The severe winter and limited access to essential supplies, particularly during medical emergencies, make it imperative.
Mohammed Ahsan, another local, recounted past winter difficulties, especially during medical emergencies. “During medical emergencies, especially pregnancy cases, we witness huge difficulties here,” he expressed.
A majority of the Gurez upper-class residents have initiated their migrations, seeking more comfortable and safer winter living in other parts of the Kashmir valley.
“Most of the villagers these days are preparing to migrate from here as the mountainous valley witnesses heavy snowfall during winter months, thus leaving villagers in trouble,” Shafeeqa Begum, a local woman told Rising Kashmir.
While significant development has occurred in Gurez over the years, the tradition of winter migration persists, particularly among those who own homes in other parts of Kashmir, she said.
An official stated that the administration remains committed to ensure that Gurez residents receive essential services during the winter, including healthcare, essential supplies, and fuel.
Helicopter services are arranged each year during the winter months to prevent medical and other emergencies, he added.