Watch: As Kashmir reels under intense cold wave, Shikara operators struggle to navigate frozen Dal Lake

SRINAGAR: The Dal Lake's surface turned to ice on Monday amid a severe cold spell across Kashmir valley.
The Shikara boat operators had to use their paddles to break through the frozen sections of the lake to continue their operations.

According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), temperatures in the city ranged from a low of -7 degrees Celsius to a high of 7 degrees Celsius. The IMD has forecast intense cold wave conditions in Jammu and Kashmir beginning December 24.
Kashmir's temperatures have dropped below zero degrees, transforming the region into a cold destination.
Despite the intense cold in Srinagar, residents are awaiting snowfall.
The severe cold conditions affected the entire valley, with numerous locations recording temperatures significantly below the freezing point.
The harsh winter period of 'Chillai Kalan' shall conclude on January 31 in the upcoming year, yet the frigid conditions persist in the valley.
This period is subsequently followed by two additional phases: a 20-day duration called 'Chillai-Khurd' (small cold) and a brief 10-day spell known as 'Chillai-Bachha' (baby cold).