Snow, rains break months-long dry spell in Kashmir; NH closed

5 Dariya News

Srinagar 11-Dec-2017

People in Valley had a breather today on Monday after snowfall in higher reaches and rains in plains finally ended months-long dry spell in the region. Due to bad weather, Srinagar-Jammu National Highway was closed for traffic in the evening.The MeT Department had predicted last week moderate to heavy snowfall in higher reaches and rainfall in plains of the Kashmir and Jammu due to effect of Western Disturbances. Accordingly, snowfall started in upper reaches and rains in plains including Srinagar last night and continued throughout the day intermittently.According to reports, snowfall has occurred in Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Gurez, Sonamarg, Zojjila Pass, Amarnath Cave, Mughal Road, Peer Ki Gali, Sadna Top and in other higher reaches of the Valley. The snowfall was also reported from many higher reaches along the Line of Control in north Kashmir. Due to fresh snowfall, the tourists were amused at Gulmarg and Pahalgam resorts of the Valley and an increased rush of visitors was witnessed today.Officials of the Traffic Police said that Srinagar Jammu National Highway was closed for the traffic movement from 5pm today due to continous heavy rainfall at Patnitop, Ramban, Banihal, and snowfall on both sides of Jahawar Tunnel. They said that the step was taken for the safety of passengers. The traffic on Bandipora-Gurez, Mughal Road and Srinagar-Leh Highways was also disrupted due to inclement weather. (GNS)