Due to gusty winds and snowfall, transportation in the southern districts of Kashmir faced disruptions on Friday. Reports indicated that snowfall persisted in Anantnag, Pulwama, Kulgam, and Shopian districts. Meanwhile, Srinagar, Ganderbal, and other central and northern districts experienced heavy rainfall overnight, with snowfall beginning in Srinagar city in the morning.
The accumulation of snow at Srinagar international airport led to the disruption of air traffic to and from the Valley. Snow clearance operations were initiated to clear the runway at the airport. Additionally, heavy snowfall near the Navyug tunnel resulted in the suspension of traffic on the Srinagar-Jammu national highway.
Authorities also halted traffic on the Mughal Road, Srinagar-Leh highway, and other higher reaches of the Valley due to heavy snowfall. Travellers were advised to postpone their journeys for the day and await further instructions from officials before proceeding. Gusty winds further impacted life in the Valley, causing damage to rooftops and electricity transmission lines.
Despite the challenges faced by residents, the snowfall was welcomed in the Valley as it is crucial for sustaining water bodies during the summer months. The significance of heavy snowfall in the region was highlighted, emphasizing its importance for the local environment and livelihoods.
