Jammu & Kashmir Hit by Heavy Snowfall, Disrupting Flights and Train Services
Jammu and Kashmir is grappling with severe disruptions in transportation as the region experiences its first major snowfall of the season. With heavy snow blanketing the landscape, both air and rail services have been suspended in key areas, causing considerable inconvenience to residents and travellers.
Srinagar International Airport faced a complete shutdown on Saturday due to the heavy snowfall and reduced visibility. Flight operations were grounded, both arrivals and departures were put on standby, and passengers were left stranded at the airport. Snow accumulation on the runway and dense fog were the primary reasons behind the halt in operations. An airport official explained, “Ensuring the safety of passengers and crew is our top priority. We are making every effort to clear the runway, but flight operations remain dependent on the prevailing weather conditions.”
In response to the situation, IndiGo Airlines issued a travel advisory via social media, stating that weather conditions were improving and flight operations would gradually resume. However, the airline cautioned passengers to verify their flight status before heading to the airport, as the situation remained unpredictable. As the snow continues to cause problems, the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway remains partially closed due to icy conditions, further complicating road travel. The Meteorological Department has forecast continued snowfall over the next 24 hours, with more snow expected in higher-altitude areas. This raises concerns that further disruptions may occur, including potential delays in resuming air and rail services. Travellers are urged to remain cautious and stay updated with airlines and road authorities regarding the latest developments.
In addition to the airport shutdown, train services on the Banihal-Baramulla section have been suspended due to heavy snow accumulation on the tracks. Railway authorities confirmed that the suspension would last until at least 1 PM on Saturday as they worked to clear the snow. A WDM locomotive equipped with a snow cutter was deployed to help remove the snow and ensure the tracks were safe for train movement. The Banihal-Baramulla rail line, an essential lifeline for the Kashmir Valley, frequently faces interruptions during the harsh winter months. This disruption, coupled with road and air transport issues, underscores the ongoing infrastructure challenges faced by Jammu and Kashmir, especially during the winter season. The region’s reliance on air, rail, and road connectivity for both passengers and freight is continually tested by adverse weather conditions.
While the weather has certainly created challenges, it has also drawn attention to the region’s need for enhanced infrastructure that can better withstand the demands of extreme winter conditions. Local authorities are actively monitoring the situation, making efforts to restore normalcy while ensuring the safety of residents and travellers. However, with the forecasted snowfall expected to continue, the public is advised to exercise patience and caution as the region navigates this difficult weather. In the meantime, as authorities clear the snow and resume operations, the picturesque winter charm of Kashmir continues to attract tourists, with many visitors braving the snow to witness the Valley’s snow-clad beauty. Despite the disruptions, officials remain focused on restoring services and improving the region’s infrastructure to ease the impact of such weather events on public life. As Jammu and Kashmir faces the brunt of the snowstorm, officials are working hard to balance safety concerns with the goal of ensuring that the public can continue to travel and enjoy the region’s beauty, albeit with a little more caution.
