SRINAGAR: The season’s first snowfall in Kashmir has brought an end to the prolonged dry spell, but it also led to significant disruptions across the region, including the cancellation of six flights and the closure of several key roads and highways.
Director of Srinagar International Airport, Javed Anjum, confirmed that six flights were canceled due to adverse weather conditions, including poor visibility and snow accumulation at the airport.
The snowfall, which started under the influence of a fresh Western Disturbance, affected multiple regions across the Kashmir Valley. Areas in South Kashmir, Central Kashmir, and parts of Doda, Ramban, and Kishtwar received moderate to heavy snowfall. In Srinagar, about two inches of snow were recorded, while higher altitudes like Peer Ki Gali, Sinthan Top, and Baltal Pahalgam accumulated up to 10-12 inches of snow. Other places like Chiranbal Kulgam recorded 8 inches, while Qazigund, Kulgam, Anantnag, and Shopian saw varying snow depths between 3 to 5 inches.
The snowfall caused major road disruptions, leading to the closure of key routes including the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, Mughal Road, Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumri (SSG) Road, and Sinthan Pass. Sinthan Pass has been closed for all vehicular movement due to heavy snowfall, and snow clearance operations are set to begin soon. The authorities also closed Gurez, Zojila, and Mughal Roads as a precautionary measure.
Additionally, the Karnah road was expected to be closed by evening due to worsening weather conditions.
The Meteorological Department (MeT) has predicted that the inclement weather will continue through Saturday, with light snow expected in the middle and upper reaches of South and Central Kashmir. The weather is expected to remain generally cloudy with light rain over the Jammu plains and light snow over the Chenab Valley and Pirpanjal Range.
Looking ahead, the MeT department forecasts generally dry weather from December 29 to 31, with the possibility of light snow in isolated places on January 1 and 2. From January 3 to 5, there is an expectation of cloudy weather with scattered light snow in some areas.
Jammu and Kashmir Police have issued advisories for the public, urging people to remain cautious and contact local authorities for any assistance needed during this weather event.
