Fresh Snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir Closes Mountain Passes

Srinagar, 13 November: A fresh snowfall has blanketed the higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir, resulting in the closure of several mountain passes. This weather change, accompanied by rain, has ended a lengthy dry period that had affected the region. The popular ski resort of Gulmarg and the tourist destination of Sonamarg are now covered in snow, attracting visitors who are eager to enjoy the winter landscape.

The snowfall has rendered several mountain passes impassable. Roads leading out of the Valley, including the Srinagar-Leh highway, Pir Ki Gali on the Mughal Road, Sinthan Pass, Razdan Pass, and Sadhna Top, are all snowbound and considered unsafe for travel. Rainfall has also increased significantly over the last 24 hours, with the Meteorological Department expecting continued adverse weather conditions until later today.

In a recent advisory, the department urged farmers to securely store harvested crops, as moderate to heavy snowfall in the upper reaches may disrupt traffic on mountain and hilly roads. Today's forecast indicates a drop in temperature by 6 to 8 degrees Celsius.

This precipitation is anticipated to improve water levels in springs, wells, lakes, and various water bodies across the Valley. It follows a period in which perennial springs, essential for drinking water supplies managed by the Public Health Department (PHE), were running at significantly reduced levels. Furthermore, migratory bird reserves, including Hokarsar, Mirgund, Hygam, Chatlam, and Shallabugh, had also been suffering due to water shortages, causing countless migratory birds to cluster closely together. The current rainfall and snowfall are expected to expand their habitat area considerably.

As temperatures drop, locals have adapted by donning traditional attire, such as the woollen overgarment known as the ‘Pheran,’ and utilising the Kangri, a pot used for warmth during the cold months. The shift in weather is likely to encourage local tourism, as families and individuals seek winter recreation opportunities in the snow-covered landscapes.