Heavy snowfall in Srinagar has finally given way to relief efforts, with the crucial Jammu-Srinagar National Highway now open for traffic. Stranded vehicles are being cleared first, bringing much-needed mobility back to the region. At the same time, snow removal operations are underway at Srinagar International Airport, paving the way for normal flight schedules.
The highway had been shut down on January 23 due to intense snow accumulation on both sides of the Nawgam Tunnel. Airport officials confirm that flight operations have restarted, with only three cancellations from Delhi due to pilot issues on Sunday. Regular services are now back in full swing.
Traffic authorities warn that several key routes remain closed, including the Srinagar-Leh Highway, Mughal Road, and passes like Sinthan and Razdan. Travelers are urged not to venture onto these paths without checking with the traffic control room first.
The weather department forecasts light to moderate rain and snowfall across Jammu and Kashmir from January 26 to 27, with some areas expecting heavier precipitation accompanied by thunder and strong winds. Farmers have been advised to halt agricultural activities until January 28, while residents in high-altitude snow-covered zones should avoid slopes prone to avalanches.
Temperatures dipped sharply overnight: Srinagar recorded a low of -1.6°C, Gulmarg -10.2°C, and Pahalgam -6.2°C. In Jammu, it was 7.1°C, Katra 6.2°C, Batote -0.1°C, Banihal -2°C, and Bhadrawah -4°C.
This recent bout of snowfall after a prolonged dry spell is a boon for farmers, orchard owners, and locals. The thick snow cover on mountains will ensure water supply to rivers, springs, wells, and lakes through the summer months. The valley’s plains saw their first snowfall of the season on January 23, amid the ongoing 40-day chill period known locally as ‘Chilla Kalaan,’ which began on December 21 and ends January 30.
