Srinagar, 27 February — ‘Chill Bach’ (the final 10-day phase of Kashmir’s traditional winter cycle, from February 20 to March 1) has brought heavy snowfall across the Kashmir Valley, including the plains and Srinagar city, shutting down major roads and highways.
According to reports, the Sadhna Top and Gurez Valley received four feet of snowfall, while Sinthan Top, Z-Gali, and Zojila Pass recorded a snow depth of three feet by this evening.
Sonamarg, Gulmarg, Doodhpathri, and Peer Ki Gali have recorded snowfall ranging from two to 2.5 feet, while DK Marg saw one foot, Aharbal eight inches, and Shopian five inches.
The Director of the Meteorological Department (MeT) stated that generally cloudy weather is expected from March 1 to March 2, with the possibility of light rain and snow at isolated to scattered places.
On March 3, light to moderate rain and snow are expected at many locations, while from March 4 to 8, the weather is likely to remain generally dry.
The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway has been closed to vehicular movement from both sides due to mud, slush, and shooting stones at Mehad, Ramban, amid continuous heavy rainfall.
Officials said that all traffic has been halted between Nashri and the Navyug Tunnel as inclement weather continues to trigger shooting stones at multiple locations.
Meanwhile, officials said men and machinery have been deployed to clear debris and restore traffic.
However, relentless rainfall and fresh shooting stones are hampering the process. Traffic has been stopped at Jakhani (Udhampur) and Qazigund as a precaution due to worsening weather conditions.
"People are advised to avoid traveling on the highway at night. A decision on reopening will be taken tomorrow if the weather improves," officials added.
(KNO Inputs)
