Kashmir Cut Off Due to Heavy Snowfall: Roads, Flights, and Train Services Disrupted

Srinagar (The Uttam Hindu): Kashmir has been rendered inaccessible as the Srinagar-Jammu national highway and Mughal Road remain closed due to heavy snowfall, while all flights at Srinagar Airport were canceled on Saturday. The adverse weather has severely impacted visibility and runway operations, leaving passengers stranded. Train services on the Banihal-Baramulla section have also been suspended.

The region witnessed its first snowfall of the season on Friday, blanketing Srinagar and surrounding areas in white. Officials reported that traffic movement on the Srinagar-Jammu national highway was affected, with approximately 2,000 vehicles stranded. Efforts are underway to clear the snow, and heavy vehicles have been allowed to move.

CM Omar Abdullah’s Drive Through Treacherous Roads

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah drove from Jammu to Srinagar, describing the road conditions as treacherous due to continuous snowfall. He confirmed that efforts are being made to assist the stranded vehicles, but icy roads remain a challenge.

Transport and Education Disruptions

Officials stated that train services on the Banihal-Baramulla section would remain suspended until 1 pm Saturday due to snow accumulation on the tracks. At Srinagar Airport, all flights were canceled on Saturday due to low visibility and snow-covered runways. Passengers have been advised to stay in contact with their airlines for updates.

IndiGo Airlines announced flight cancellations due to the runway closure, stating, "The weather in Srinagar has taken a turn, leading to a temporary runway closure."

The Kashmir University also postponed all exams scheduled for Saturday, with new dates to be announced later.

Snowfall Brings Cheer to Locals and Tourists

While the snowfall caused disruptions, it brought joy to locals and tourists. Yawar Hussain, a local, expressed relief, stating, "We had been waiting for snow for a long time. It will benefit tourism, agriculture, and horticulture while improving water and power supply."

Tourists shared their excitement, calling the snowfall magical. Priya, a visitor, described it as a dream come true, while another tourist, Pankaj Kumar, said it made his trip unforgettable.

Apart from Srinagar, the snowfall extended to the plains of Ganderbal, Anantnag, Kulgam, Shopian, and Pulwama, as well as popular destinations like Gulmarg, Sonamarg, and Pahalgam. Snowfall was also reported in Gurez, Zojila axis, Sadhna Top, Mughal Road, and parts of Bandipora, Baramulla, and Kupwara.