The sudden change in weather in Jammu and Kashmir has completely disrupted life. Heavy rain and snowfall from Thursday night to Friday afternoon resulted in up to five feet of snow accumulation in the hilly areas, while torrential rain worsened the situation in the plains. Thousands of vehicles are stranded as all major roads in the state, including the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, are closed.
The shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi received the first snowfall of the season, covering the Trikuta Mountains. Heavy snowfall has occurred in Patnitop, Nathatop, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Pahalgam, Pir Ki Gali, Zojila Pass, and most areas of the Pir Panjal Range. Landslides and rockfalls have been reported at several locations.
Highways and major roads closed
Traffic on the 270-kilometer-long Jammu-Srinagar National Highway has been completely halted due to slippery conditions, heavy snowfall, and landslides. The Navyug Tunnel and surrounding areas on the Banihal-Qazigund section are experiencing continuous snowfall. The Mughal Road, Srinagar-Leh National Highway, and Sinthan Road have also been closed.
Rail and air services affected
The heavy snowfall has also affected rail and air traffic. All flights from Srinagar Airport were cancelled, while several flights on the Jammu-Srinagar route were not operated. Rail services were also partially affected. Limited trains operated from Banihal and Sangaldan towards Srinagar, while rail traffic from Kashmir towards Banihal was completely halted.
More than 112 people rescued
The administration and security forces launched rescue operations to evacuate people stranded in snow-covered areas. 70 passengers were rescued from the Krishna Ghati area of Poonch district. In the Basantgarh area of Udhampur district, police rescued 12 people, including women and children, from a blizzard. Stranded tourists were also rescued in Ganderbal district.
Avalanche Alert in Six Districts
A high-risk avalanche warning has been issued in the high-altitude areas of Ganderbal, Doda, Kishtwar, Poonch, Ramban, and Kupwara districts. The administration has appealed to people to avoid unnecessary travel and avoid avalanche-prone areas.
Schools Closed, Power and Water Crisis
Schools were closed as a precautionary measure in Udhampur, Rajouri, Poonch, and Kathua districts due to the adverse weather conditions. Power and water supply remained disrupted in many areas. Strong winds and fallen trees caused significant damage to power lines.
Restoration a Government Priority
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah stated that the government’s priority is to restore roads and power supply. Roads are being reopened one by one and the damage is being assessed. He has appealed to the people to maintain restraint and follow the instructions of the administration.
