Bandipora, Nov 4:
The upper reaches of north Kashmir, including the Razdhan Pass — the only road link connecting Bandipora with the picturesque Gurez Valley — witnessed fresh snowfall on Tuesday evening, marking the first major white cover of the season.
The snowfall has transformed the region into a winter spectacle but has also made the mountain stretch slippery, affecting vehicular movement between Gurez and the rest of the Valley.
Residents from Tulail and Dawar areas of Gurez said that snowflakes began falling late in the evening and continued intermittently through the night, covering the higher reaches under a soft white blanket. Light to moderate snowfall was also reported from nearby mountainous belts, including Kanzalwan, Chorwan, and Badwan.
Officials said the Razdhan Pass has become risky for travel due to accumulated snow, prompting authorities to issue travel advisories.
> “Vehicular movement has been affected, and only essential services are being allowed with caution,” an official from the district administration said.
According to the Meteorological Department, light snowfall was recorded over the higher reaches of north Kashmir, and similar conditions are expected to continue for the next 24 hours under the influence of a western disturbance.
> “Higher altitudes of north and central Kashmir may see intermittent snowfall, while plains could experience light rain,” a MeT official added.
The fresh spell has also caused a noticeable dip in both day and night temperatures across north Kashmir, pushing residents to turn to traditional heating methods as the region gears up for the onset of winter.
