Ganderbal, Jan 27, KNT: Normal life across the Kashmir Valley remained severely affected on Tuesday as widespread snowfall and rainfall disrupted road connectivity and daily activities in both hilly and plain areas, officials said.
According to the Meteorological Department, continuous snowfall has hampered traffic movement on several key routes, while slippery road conditions added to commuter difficulties. Authorities said the ongoing weather system has impacted both inter district and inter regional connectivity, particularly in higher reaches.
The department said that the hilly areas of the Valley are likely to receive up to two feet of snowfall, while the plains may witness five to six inches of snow accompanied by rainfall. Official data showed that Zojila recorded around three feet of snowfall, while Sonamarg received about two feet. Gagangeer and Kulan Gund reported nearly one and a half feet of snow, while Kangan area of Ganderbal district recorded around four inches.
Officials said the snowfall is continuing at several places, with intermittent spells reported from higher reaches as well as lower areas.
Director Meteorological Department Ladakh, Sonam Lotus, told KNT that the spell of snowfall will persist across the hilly and plain areas of the Kashmir Valley until January 27. He said that an improvement in weather conditions is expected from January 28.
However, he cautioned that despite the anticipated improvement, the cold wave is likely to intensify further across the region. He also warned that the risk of avalanches remains high at several vulnerable locations, particularly in snow bound higher reaches.
Authorities have advised people to avoid unnecessary travel to avalanche prone and high altitude areas until weather conditions stabilize. [KNT]
