Heavy snowfall has blanketed Jammu and Kashmir, resulting in significant disruptions across the region. Roads have been blocked, and flight operations are delayed as the inclement weather continues to affect residents and travelers alike. Reports indicate continuous rain and snowfall, which have persisted for over 36 hours, leading to difficulties on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway and other key roadways.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), both the Srinagar-Jammu and Srinagar-Ladakh highways were shut down due to accumulating snow, along with landslides reported at various locations, including Qazigund and Banihal. Authorities have halted all vehicles at Jakhani, Udhampur, which has become the focal point of the impassable highway. The IMD has extended warnings for heavy rainfall and snow, which are expected to last until early February 28, 2025.
Traffic police have prohibitions on any vehicles attempting to head past Jakhani, aiming to manage the hazardous conditions caused by the weather. Javid Anjum, Director of the Srinagar Airport, has also confirmed disruptions: "All morning flights are running late due to poor weather conditions at Srinagar International Airport." Passengers are advised to stay updated on notifications from their respective airlines.
The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has mobilized efforts to clear the runway at Srinagar airport. They are working against the clock to restore normalcy following the fresh spell of heavy snow. Their clearance operations are expected to continue until access is restored, allowing flights to resume.
Local residents have expressed mixed sentiments about the severe weather. While the snowfall poses challenges, particularly concerning travel and road access, many farmers view it as beneficial. Previous concerns about financial losses from inadequate snowfall have been alleviated, with this abundant precipitation promising improved irrigation and conditions for crops.
Meanwhile, schools remained open for exams, with the Jammu and Kashmir School Board of Education authorizing 11th-grade tests as scheduled, indicating resilience against the weather disruptions. Conversely, Islamic University of Science and Technology has postponed its first-semester examinations due to the adverse conditions.
Across the broader region, other areas are experiencing their own weather-related issues. Heavy snow also engulfed parts of Himachal Pradesh, invoking warnings for possible avalanches. The local police have issued advisories for caution, particularly on steep slopes prone to avalanche triggers. The IMD recorded medium-sized avalanche risks, guiding travelers to use only designated safe routes.
On the flip side, the western coastal areas of India are grappling with heatwave conditions, creating stark contrasts within the weather patterns across the country. The IMD has warned of unusually high temperatures for this time of year—a significant turn from the weather chaos experienced by northern regions such as Jammu and Kashmir.
Efforts to clear snow from affected roads such as Batote-Doda have also been intensified following reported landslides. The series of impactful weather patterns has resulted in tight cooperation between local authorities and the BRO, as both work to alleviate the strains caused by snow and ice accumulation.
Residents have been advised to stay safe and avoid unnecessary travel during storms and adverse conditions. While the bout of heavy snow brings disruptions, it is reminiscent of the region's climatic traits, where unpredictable weather patterns are often the norm. Local governments encourage residents to follow updates and heed warnings as another storm sweeps through.
Moving forward, officials are hopeful for some respite as weather conditions are anticipated to improve later on February 28. The IMD predicts clearer skies, potentially restoring transportation and daily activities. Yet, for now, the residents of Jammu and Kashmir, alongside their neighbors, continue to grapple with significant challenges caused by the heavy snowfall.
Overall, this weather event serves as both a reminder of nature's unpredictability and the resilience of communities drawn together by adversity. The effects of the snow will likely resonate for days to come, reflecting both challenges and opportunities for farmers and residents alike.