Recent Snowfall Grips the Mountains; Cold Winds Sweep Through J&K
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Srinagar, Dec 9 (NationPress) Recent snowfall has covered the elevated regions of Jammu & Kashmir as both minimum and maximum temperatures have further decreased on Monday due to cold winds blowing in from the snow-covered mountain tops.
The hill stations of Gulmarg, Sonamarg, and Pahalgam experienced fresh snowfall, causing difficulties for visitors navigating the slippery roads, particularly in the Gulmarg and Botapathri areas.
Authorities have issued a warning that no vehicle without non-skid chains on its tyres will be permitted to travel from Tangmarg to Gulmarg following the recent snowfall.
The Mughal Road, which connects the Kashmir valley to the Jammu region, is currently closed for traffic, along with the Srinagar-Leh and Bandipora-Gurez roads, which are also covered in snow.
Officials from the MET department have reported that the fresh snowfall in the higher altitudes has resulted in a further drop in both maximum and minimum temperatures.
On Monday, Srinagar recorded a low of minus 3.3, Gulmarg minus 9, and Pahalgam minus 6.8 degrees Celsius for the minimum temperature.
The maximum temperature was noted at 9.6 in Srinagar, 1 in Gulmarg, and 7.8 in Pahalgam on Sunday.
The minimum temperatures recorded in Jammu city were 6.5, Katra 6, Batote minus 0.5, Banihal minus 4.1, and Bhaderwah minus 3.4 on Monday.
The period known as 'Chillai Kalan', lasting for 40 days of severe winter, will commence on December 21 and conclude on January 30. During this time, many water bodies in the valley freeze, making boat movement challenging.
Fog and frost deter residents from leaving their homes in the mornings, as they strive to keep warm by using a fire pot filled with embers, called the 'Kangri', which is held under a long woolen overgarment known as the 'Pheran'.
The Kangri and Pheran are two essential winter items cherished by the people of Kashmir, transcending class and creed.
