Fresh snowfall across parts of Jammu and Kashmir disrupted road and air connectivity on Tuesday, leading to the closure of the strategic Srinagar-Jammu National Highway and cancellation of multiple flights at Srinagar International Airport, even as the winter landscape drew enthusiastic reactions from visiting tourists.
Officials said National Highway 44, the key arterial road linking the Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country, has been closed for traffic until further orders following snow accumulation near both ends of the Navyug Tunnel. Snow build-up was reported in the Qazigund area of Kulgam district on the Valley side and Banihal in Ramban district on the Jammu side. Authorities said no vehicular movement would be allowed from Jammu towards Srinagar and vice versa while the situation persists.
Other important routes remain shut as well. Mughal Road, which connects Shopian with Poonch and Rajouri, along with the Srinagar-Sonamarg-Gumri (SSG) Road and Sinthan Road, are already closed due to weather conditions. Traffic authorities have advised the public to avoid travel on these routes until restoration work is completed and roads are declared safe.
Air travel was also affected, with airport officials stating that at least eight flights from Srinagar had been cancelled due to bad weather. Morning flight operations were particularly impacted as snowfall and low visibility conditions interfered with schedules. Passengers have been advised to check flight status with airlines before heading to the airport.
The Meteorological Department has forecast light to moderate rain or snowfall at most places, with the possibility of heavy rain or snow accompanied by gusty winds at a few locations. Light precipitation is also expected on Wednesday. An advisory issued by the department has urged travellers and transporters to confirm highway status before undertaking journeys, warning of the possibility of moderate to heavy precipitation, thunderstorms and gusty winds.
Specific advisories have also been issued for different sections of the population. Farmers have been asked to suspend farming activities until Wednesday, while people living in higher reaches have been cautioned against venturing into steep slopes and avalanche-prone areas.
The current snowfall comes towards the end of the 40-day harsh winter period known locally as ‘Chillai Kalan’, which began on December 21 and will conclude on January 30. Snow during this phase plays a significant role in replenishing mountain water reservoirs that feed rivers, streams, springs and lakes during the warmer months. The fresh snowfall has been seen as beneficial for sustaining water resources in the coming seasons.
While travel disruptions posed challenges for residents and commuters, the snowfall brought visible excitement among tourists in Srinagar. Several visitors described the experience of witnessing snowfall in the city as memorable, with many saying they had come specifically to see snow-covered landscapes. Snow-laden trees, rooftops and roads added to the winter appeal of the region.
Weather alerts have been issued for parts of Jammu and Kashmir, with forecasts of heavy snowfall in several districts and warnings of thunderstorms and hailstorms in some areas. Yellow and Orange alerts remain in place in selected districts as authorities monitor conditions.
Despite recent challenges faced by the tourism sector, including security-related setbacks and adverse weather in previous months, the renewed snowfall has added to the seasonal charm that draws visitors to the Valley during winter.
