- विज्ञापन -
Srinagar: Heavy snowfall continued to disrupt life in Kashmir for a second consecutive day, although local authorities swiftly restored electricity to most areas of the Valley.
The Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, Mughal Road, and the Srinagar-Leh Highway remained closed, along with all routes through mountain passes. Flights to Srinagar International Airport were cancelled on Saturday, with officials monitoring the situation for potential flight resumption.
In response to stranded tourists, local residents in Kulgam and Anantnag districts opened their homes and mosques, providing food and heating arrangements to those left without shelter in freezing conditions. Families of the stranded tourists expressed deep gratitude to the locals, highlighting their compassion for the vulnerable, including children and the elderly.
“This is true Kashmiriyat. We owe a debt of gratitude to the local people, who have shown the warmth and kindness that Kashmir is renowned for. This kindness challenges any negative stereotypes about them,” said Shushant from Uttar Pradesh, who was stuck on the Srinagar-Jammu highway with his family.
The local electricity department’s staff, especially linemen, have heroically restored power amidst the extreme weather, risking their safety to repair damaged lines and ensure electricity supply across the Valley. Abdul Gani Mir, a resident of old Srinagar, praised their exemplary service, stating, “These individuals prove that heroes exist among us in everyday life, not just in stories.”
Meanwhile, authorities took action by suspending three assistant engineers for their absence during critical times. However, the minimum temperature improved slightly, with Srinagar recording minus 0.2 degrees Celsius, a rise from a low of minus 8.5 degrees earlier in the week. The Meteorological (MeT) office has forecast generally cloudy weather with periods of sunshine in Jammu and Kashmir over the next 24 hours.
