Sajid Raina
Srinagar, Jan 27: Villages near the Line of Control (LoC) in north Kashmir face severe challenges every winter when heavy snowfall disconnects them from the rest of the world.
Essential commodities, including food and healthcare, become scarce as roads remain blocked for months, leaving residents to endure long periods of isolation.
The Gurez Valley, located near the LoC, is one such area. Known for its snow-capped mountains and pristine rivers, the valley transforms into a harsh winter zone for its residents.
“We stock firewood, rice, oil, and dried vegetables before the snowfall begins,” Abdul Rasheed, a resident of Tulail, said, adding, “These provisions are critical for survival as roads connecting the valley to Bandipora remain inaccessible for several months.”
Razdan Pass, the main route to Gurez, records about 10–15 feet of snow during winter. This heavy snowfall blocks the road, leaving the region isolated.
According to locals, this closure creates administrative challenges and disrupts daily life. “During winter, we cannot even take critically ill patients to the hospital. Sometimes, it takes days to move a body back to its native area for burial,” one of the residents said.
The administration has been using helicopters to manage medical emergencies. “Critically ill patients are airlifted to city hospitals, and students in need of evacuation also use the chopper service,” an official said.
However, locals expressed concerns about this reliance on choppers. “If the weather is bad, the helicopters can’t operate,” said Ishfaq Ahmad another local.
The region’s harsh conditions force many residents to leave during winter.
Bashir Ahmad, a health worker, said the closure of roads, coupled with health emergencies and food shortages, forces migration.
“For those who stay, daily life is centred around survival,” Bashir said, adding, “During heavy snowfall, we gather at someone’s house to sing traditional songs and share folk tales.”
The winter months also bring unique challenges in healthcare. The sub-district hospital often remains out of reach for residents due to blocked roads. “The snow-clad region includes 15 sub-villages, and during winter, accessing healthcare is nearly impossible,” said a local.
Despite the administration’s efforts, the lack of a year-round road link remains a problem.
Residents believe a tunnel at the high-altitude Razdan Pass could provide a permanent solution. “A tunnel would ensure year-round connectivity and eliminate dependence on temporary measures like helicopter services,” another resident said.
Snow clearance operations are currently underway to reopen the Gurez-Bandipora road. “We are working to ensure the road is cleared as soon as possible,” an official said.
“Winter life here is about patience and preparation. You might not see your neighbours for weeks because of the snow,” said Aziz, another local. “The challenges are an integral part of life in the Gurez Valley.”
