The first snowfall of the season in Kashmir Valley exposed the administration’s planning as it led to massive power breakdowns, road blockades, a scarcity of essential commodities, and waterlogging, creating significant hardships for the people.
The CPIM leader and the MLA from Kulgam said “The administration’s inadequate response has created immense difficulties for the people living in rural areas following an unexpected occurrence of snowfall in the region.”
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah directed the deputy commissioners to personally supervise snow clearance operations.
He asked officers to submit photographic evidence of cleared areas to ensure thorough removal and prevent freezing road conditions as temperatures drop.
He also called for a proactive approach, directing officials to deploy adequate manpower and machinery on the ground.
Omar Abdullah also directed officials “to provide two-hourly updates on the snow clearance operations to CM’s office.”
The inclement weather prompted the closure of the 270-kilometre Srinagar-Jammu highway, while all flights at Srinagar International Airport were cancelled, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded.
Meanwhile, Srinagar city along with several areas of the region received their first snowfall, while the upper reaches recorded significant accumulations of snow over the past 48 hours.
The snowfall has brought much-needed relief and cheer to the region, as J&K witnessed a prolonged dry spell exaggerated by the intense cold wave conditions.
Higher reaches including Sonamarg, Gulmarg, and Dodhpatri, and tourist spots experienced heavy snowfall till late Saturday evening. The MET office predicted another wet spell from January 1–3.
The snowfall also disrupted Railway services were partially restored after heavy snowfall led to the suspension of service along the Sangaldan-Baramulla section of the Firozpur division in the Kashmir Valley on Saturday.
The snowfall disrupted the Srinagar International Airport. Director of airport operations Javed Anjum informed reporters all flights scheduled for Saturday were cancelled.
Meanwhile, residents across the valley continue to face challenges, with power outages compounding the difficulties caused by heavy snowfall.
Authorities are urging patience as restoration teams have been continuously working to restore air, road, rail, and power supply in the region.
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