Highway Blocked, Waterlogging Woes Persist
Weather to Improve From Friday: MeT
Suhail Khan
Srinagar, Feb 27: The prolonged dry spell in Kashmir finally came to an end on Thursday as fresh snowfall and intermittent rains lashed various parts of the Valley, bringing both relief and challenges for residents. While the long-awaited precipitation replenished water sources and revived the winter charm, it also led to travel disruptions, road closures, and waterlogging in urban areas.
An official told Kashmir Despatch that the region experienced a mix of weather conditions on Thursday, with fresh snowfall blanketing the higher reaches and light to moderate rain affecting the plains. However, after noon, parts of Kashmir, including Srinagar, witnessed fresh snowfall, bringing joy to the faces of those who had long waited to glimpse the winter wonderland.
The official stated that several areas in north Kashmir, including the popular ski resort of Gulmarg in Baramulla district, Gurez in Bandipora, Machil in Kupwara, Tangdar, and Sonamarg in Ganderbal, along with Peer Ki Gali, Sinthon Top, and the Lolab Valley, received light snowfall. The plains from Kupwara to Srinagar to Bandipora to Ganderbal also experienced fresh snowfall.
Director Meteorological Kashmir, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, informed Kashmir Despatch that, as predicted, the higher reaches and plains in Kashmir, especially in the northern region, also received fresh snowfall.
He noted that the higher reaches of Kupwara, Budgam, Baramulla, Bandipora, Ganderbal, Shopian, and other locations witnessed fresh snowfall over the last two days, while on Thursday afternoon, other parts of Kashmir, including Srinagar city, experienced light to moderate snowfall.
Dr. Mukhtar indicated that another spell of western disturbance is expected to begin from March 1st to 2nd. “In this spell, the weather is predicted to remain generally cloudy with light rain and snow in scattered to fairly widespread areas,” he said.
Precipitation Deficit Reduces, But Winter Rainfall Still Below Normal
According to data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Jammu and Kashmir recorded 83% precipitation this winter, including both rain and snowfall. However, the fresh spell has helped decrease the overall precipitation deficit, bringing it down to 69%. The region, which normally receives around 200 mm of precipitation during winter, recorded only 65.8 mm between January 1 and February 26, 2025.
Jammu-Srinagar Highway Closed Due to Landslides, Mud Slush
The snowfall and incessant rains have triggered landslides and mudslides along the strategic Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44), forcing authorities to suspend traffic movement.
The Traffic Department, in an update on X (formerly Twitter), stated that heavy mud slush at Mehad Ramban and shooting stones between Nasri and Navyug Tunnel had rendered the highway impassable. “Men and machinery have been deployed to restore the highway, but continuous rainfall and recurring landslides are delaying the clearance process,” the post read.
Authorities have urged commuters to avoid unnecessary travel, particularly during nighttime, and have assured that efforts are underway to reopen the highway as soon as conditions permit.
Avalanche Strikes Gurez, Damages Two Houses
Amid heavy snowfall, an avalanche struck the Khandiyal village in Gurez Valley on Thursday afternoon, partially damaging two residential structures.
An official source told Kashmir Despatch that the avalanche was triggered by heavy snowfall in the upper reaches. Fortunately, no casualties or injuries were reported. The local administration has since launched rescue and relief efforts to assist the affected families.
Given the increased risk of avalanches in various mountainous regions, authorities have issued advisories, urging residents in vulnerable areas to exercise caution.
Waterlogging Worsens Due to Defunct Drains in Srinagar
The heavy rains have also exposed the poor drainage system in various parts of Srinagar and other towns, causing severe waterlogging on roads and in residential areas. Reports suggest that several localities across the city, including commercial hubs, were submerged due to overflowing and clogged drains.
Residents complained that defunct drainage systems compounded the problem, leaving pedestrians and commuters struggling through waterlogged streets. However, local authorities have mobilized teams to address the issue and assist affected residents.
Suhail Khan is a filmmaker, content writer, and freelance journalist.
