SRINAGAR: Strong and gusty winds swept across Jammu and Kashmir from Thursday evening, causing widespread property damage, disrupting electricity supply and triggering safety alerts from authorities, officials, and local reports said.
In Srinagar, the rooftop of a gym was blown off in the Mehjoor Nagar area early Friday, forcing the temporary closure of a busy road after sheets and debris fell onto the carriageway. Officials and locals said vehicular movement was halted for some time as commuters were diverted to alternative routes. No injuries were reported in the incident, though the sudden collapse triggered panic among residents.
The Mehjoor Nagar episode formed part of a broader trail of destruction across the Valley as unusually strong winds battered central, north and south Kashmir, besides parts of the Jammu region. Residents described the intensity of the winds as uncommon for January, with sudden gusts uprooting trees, damaging rooftops and bringing down boundary walls in several areas.
Across Srinagar and other towns, shop signboards, flex boards and metal hoardings were torn apart, while tin shed fencing and temporary residential structures were either partially damaged or completely uprooted. Fallen branches, loose metal sheets and scattered debris were reported from multiple localities, posing risks to pedestrians and motorists. In several markets, shopkeepers rushed late at night to secure their establishments to prevent further losses.
The windstorm also caused widespread disruption to electricity supply across the Kashmir Valley. Officials said numerous feeders developed faults after trees and metal structures fell on power lines. Restoration work was launched immediately, though continued gusty conditions slowed repairs in some areas.
Reports from various districts indicated damage to houses, sheds and public infrastructure. In Budgam district, one person sustained injuries after coming into contact with a fallen live electric wire during the windstorm, officials said.
The India Meteorological Department issued an alert cautioning people against unnecessary outdoor movement and advised authorities to remain on high alert as strong winds persisted through the night. Emergency teams and local administrations were placed on standby to respond to incidents involving fallen trees, damaged structures and power outages.
Authorities urged residents to remain cautious, avoid moving close to weak structures, electric poles and dangling wires, and to promptly report damage to concerned departments for timely assistance.
