Fresh snowfall blankets higher reaches of Kashmir, disrupting traffic
Heavy snow in mountain passes and a landslide on the Uri-Baramulla National Highway have halted vehicular movement in parts of the Valley.
Fresh snowfall has blanketed the higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir, including Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Zojila, and Peer Ki Gali, according to reports by Outlook and Kashmir Observer. The snowfall, occurring under the influence of a western disturbance, has caused a sharp drop in daytime temperatures across the Valley.
In central Kashmir, Sonamarg received its first snowfall of the season. Other areas recorded significant accumulation, with Sadhna Top and Razdan Pass receiving over a foot of snow, while Sinthan Top recorded 8-10 inches. Z-Gali and Margan Top saw 6-8 inches, Zojila Pass recorded 5-6 inches, and Peer Ki Gali received 5-8 inches.
The weather has disrupted road connectivity, forcing authorities to suspend traffic on the Srinagar-Leh Highway due to snow at Zojila Pass. The Mughal Road, connecting Shopian with Poonch and Rajouri, remained closed for a second day following heavy snow at Pir Ki Gali. Additionally, a landslide at Rajanwani on the Uri-Baramulla National Highway in north Kashmir has left commuters stranded.
The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has started snow-clearance operations on the Mughal Road and the Chowkibal-Tangdhar road in Kupwara. While the Mughal Road could reopen on Friday depending on weather, continued snowfall may hamper restoration efforts.
The Meteorological Department has predicted light to moderate rain in the plains and snow in higher reaches through Friday afternoon. Brief spells of light rain or snow are expected on November 14 and 15, before the weather turns generally dry from November 16 to 20.