Fresh Snowfall in Kashmir’s Upper Reaches Marks Winter’s Arrival

The higher reaches of Kashmir Valley received fresh snowfall on Sunday evening, leading to a drop in temperatures across the region, officials said.

An official told the news that snowfall began late Sunday afternoon in the higher reaches of the valley, including the famous ski resort Gulmarg, as well as Gurez, Karnah, Sonamarg, Pahalgam and other areas.The official said traffic movement on Mughal, Gurez and Sinthan roads has been halted due to fresh snowfall. “Travellers are advised to avoid these routes until the roads are cleared and deemed safe for travel,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department had forecast generally cloudy weather with light rain in some areas of Jammu Division and light rain or snow in the higher reaches of Kashmir Division from the evening of 8th to the morning of 9th December.

It said the weather is expected to remain dry from December 10 to 11, followed by more cloudy conditions with light snow in isolated higher reaches on December 12.

“From December 13 to 17, dry weather is predicted,” the MeT added.

Furthermore, authorities have issued advisories for safe travel on the Gulmarg-Tangmarg road. “Only 4×4 vehicles with anti-skid chains will be allowed due to slippery conditions,” the advisory said, adding that the LMVs with no more than 10 seats will be permitted to prevent jams.

“Registered anti-skid chain vendors will install chains at Rs 600 per pair. Tour operators and private vehicle owners are urged to park in designated spaces, and coat and boot vendors are prohibited from blocking roads to avoid traffic disruptions,” reads the advisory.