A widespread weather system delivering heavy rain and fresh snowfall brought life to a standstill across Jammu and Kashmir on Friday, snapping vital road and air links after nearly three months of dry conditions.
The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44), the region’s lifeline, was closed for traffic after snow accumulated up to the Ramsoo region in Ramban district. Authorities halted all vehicles at safer locations as a precautionary measure against slippery roads and poor visibility. "Traffic movement on the highway has been stopped for safety reasons. All vehicles have been stationed at secure points," confirmed officials.
The disruption extended to Udhampur, where traffic was stopped at Jakhani Chowk, and to the skies over Srinagar. The much-anticipated snowfall, while bringing joy to residents weary of a prolonged dry spell, severely impacted transportation networks.
Air connectivity was significantly disrupted, with IndiGo Airlines and Srinagar Airport announcing temporary suspensions and cancellations. IndiGo issued an advisory citing halted take-offs and landings due to snowfall, warning passengers of extended waiting times onboard and on the ground.
"We are closely monitoring the weather and will get you on your way as soon as conditions allow," the airline stated, offering rebooking or refund options and advising passengers to check real-time flight updates.
Srinagar Airport authorities confirmed multiple cancellations, attributing them to the ongoing heavy snowfall and a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) in force at Delhi Airport. "Passengers are requested to kindly confirm their flight status from the concerned airline before starting their journey," the airport authority posted.
The weather marked a dramatic shift for the region, with snowfall finally reaching the plains and the upper reaches of Doda’s Bhalesa region. Residents, who had endured a prolonged dry period, expressed relief and happiness as the long-awaited winter cloak covered the landscape, promising better water resources in the coming months.
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a tehsil-level nowcast warning for adjacent regions. It forecast thunderstorms, lightning, moderate rain, and gusty winds in parts of Punjab and Haryana during the early morning hours.
Authorities across the affected regions remain on alert, working to clear roads and restore normalcy as soon as weather conditions improve.
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