Heavy snowfall disrupts life in Kashmir: Flights, rail services suspended, Jammu-Srinagar highway closed

NEW DELHI: Normal life was severely disrupted across Kashmir on Saturday as heavy snowfall continued to affect the region. Snowfall began on Friday, marking the season's first significant snowfall in Srinagar and other plain areas of the valley.

Heavy snowfall across the region

Moderate to heavy snowfall was recorded in various parts of Kashmir, including heavy snow in south Kashmir and central Kashmir’s plains. Srinagar recorded around 8 inches of snow, with Ganderbal and Sonamarg receiving 7-8 inches. The Zojila axis on the Srinagar-Leh highway saw 15 inches of snow, while areas in Anantnag district recorded up to 17 inches. Pahalgam, Pulwama, Shopian, and other areas also reported substantial snowfall, causing widespread disruptions.

Travel and infrastructure affected

The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) was closed for traffic due to heavy snow accumulation, and efforts to clear the road were hindered by conditions at the Navyug Tunnel. Train services on the Banihal-Baramulla section were suspended, and air traffic to and from Srinagar was significantly affected, with about 80% of flights cancelled on Saturday.

Power outages and ongoing clearance operations

Power supply was disrupted across the valley, with 41 feeders at the 33 KV level and 739 feeders at the 11 KV level reported down. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah assured that restoration work was underway, and more than 90% of the feeders were expected to be restored by evening.

Clearance operations are ongoing to reopen blocked roads, especially those leading to hospitals, though many interior roads remain inaccessible. Motorists faced difficulties due to slippery conditions.

Chillai-Kalan period and weather forecast

Kashmir is currently experiencing 'Chillai-Kalan,' the harshest period of winter, which started on December 21. The MeT Department reported improved minimum temperatures across the valley, with Srinagar's low rising to minus 1°C, up from minus 7.3°C the previous night.


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