Train Services Delayed Between Budgam and Banihal Amid Winter Weather Challenges
Suhail Khan
Srinagar, Dec 27 ; In light of the fresh snowfall in the plains of the Kashmir region, the Traffic Department of Kashmir issued an advisory for both two-wheelers and four-wheelers traveling, particularly to hilly areas.
A senior traffic official informed Kashmir Despatch that due to the prevailing weather conditions and the expectation of further rain and snowfall—especially in hilly areas—motorists are advised to adhere strictly to the following guidelines.
During snowfall and on slippery hilly roads, only vehicles equipped with 4X4 capabilities or fitted with anti-skid chains, and with a seating capacity of no more than 10 persons, will be allowed to operate on hilly roads. This is particularly applicable to routes such as Tangmarg-Gulmarg, Mughal Road, Zojila, Sinthon, Gurez-Bandipora, Pahalgam-Chandanwari, Kupwara-Karnah, and Kupwara-Machil, provided these roads are open for vehicular traffic.
To avoid undue congestion and traffic jams, only registered anti-skid chain vendors will be permitted to fix chains at designated locations.
The official emphasized that no motorist shall be allowed to park their vehicle outside designated parking areas. Strict action will be taken against drivers who park their vehicles improperly on the roadside.
Furthermore, no vehicle with invalid documents will be permitted to travel on hilly roads in order to prevent any unpleasant incidents.
Motorists are encouraged to exercise caution and adhere to these guidelines to ensure their safety and the smooth flow of traffic in the area the official further added.
Meanwhile, a railway official informed Kashmir Despatch that following the fresh snowfall, train number 04640, scheduled to operate from Budgam to Banihal, has been delayed.
Pertinently, the plains of Kashmir received the season’s first snowfall on Friday afternoon.
Suhail Khan is a filmmaker, content writer, and freelance journalist.
