Srinagar, Dec 09: Kashmir valley continues to reel under intense cold wave. Srinagar recorded the coldest night of the season on Saturday as the mercury dropped to a bone-chilling minus 4.6 degrees Celsius on Saturday leading to the freezing of water bodies throughout the region.
The Meteorological (MeT) forecast suggests that the ongoing cold wave will continue, with nighttime temperatures anticipated to drop even more and foggy conditions persisting until December 16.
In South Kashmir Kulgam, Anantnag, Pulwama, and Shopian recorded night temperatures of -1.9°C,-4.3°C, – 4.7°C & -5.9°C respectively.
In North Kashmir Kupwara, Baramulla, and Bandipora recorded minimum temperatures of -3.0°C -2.1°C & -4.3°C. In Central Kashmir Budgam and Ganderbal recorded a minimum of -3.5°C & -3.3°C
Tourist destinations like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Kokarnag recorded today night temperatures of -4.2°C,-5.0°C & -2.3°C respectively.
Director MeT, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad told Rising Kashmir that most of the places in the valley have witnessed sub-zero temperatures for several days.
“In the upcoming days, temperatures are likely to decrease even more. Foggy weather conditions could affect transportation, both on the roads and in the air, during the morning and evening hours,” he said.
Dr. Mukhtar said from 13th-16th December, the weather will remain mostly cloudy. Overall dry and cold weather will continue till 16th December,” he said.
The MeT Director said that there will be more fall in minimum temperature by 1-2°C is expected during the next 2 days over all the stations and thereafter slight improvement till 16th December.
Over the last fortnight, Kashmir has braved an extended period of below-zero temperatures.
Various locations in the valley have recorded minimum temperatures ranging from minus 4 to minus 5 degrees Celsius, exacerbating the already chilly climate.
Persistent dense fog has shrouded many areas, necessitating vehicles to use headlights during both morning and evening hours.
The dense fog has led to delays in transportation, including road and air travel. Drivers were seen using headlights due to limited visibility on the roads.
Public transportation services in Srinagar city are experiencing delays, impacting the daily routines of residents.
Local authorities have urged commuters to plan their journeys accordingly, considering the prevailing weather conditions. They emphasize the importance of using fog lights and adhering to traffic guidelines.
Meanwhile, sub-zero temperatures not only heightened the winter cold but also resulted in the freezing of water bodies in the region and a substantial decrease in daytime temperatures.
Javid Anjum, Director of Srinagar International Airport said that there were no delays or cancellations for any flights at Srinagar airport.
Meanwhile, traffic along the 270-kilometer Srinagar-Jammu highway was playing normally from both sides.
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) NHW Rohit Baskotra said they have registered five FIRs for overloading and endangering human lives along the highway.
“Four drivers have been arrested while 78 vehicles were seized and 2032 challaned in different Motor Vehicles Act Violations,” he said.
SP National Highway appealed that people should come forward and report all traffic violations on helpline numbers of Traffic Police to ensure their safety.
Subject to dry weather on Sunday, traffic on the Srinagar- Jammu highway will ply from both sides. The traffic police spokesman advised commuters to follow lane discipline.
On the Sonamarg-Leh road, vehicular movement shall be allowed from both sides, and special arrangements are in place for SFs Convoy to ensure minimal disturbance to civilian traffic.
On the Mughal Road, vehicular movement is allowed from both sides, with specified timings in place to regulate traffic.
