Raja Syed Rather
Ganderbal, Jun 14: Amid the intense heatwave in Jammu and Kashmir, the residents from various districts of the Valley are seeking relief at Sonamarg, thus increasing the flow of visitors to the picturesque place.
The tourist hotspot Sonamarg, nestled in Ganderbal district, has witnessed a significant rush of local visitors in recent days, as people flee the rising temperatures in the plains, particularly in summer capital Srinagar.
With mercury levels soaring to around 30°C in Srinagar, families, youth groups and even schoolchildren made their way to Sonamarg and other nearby cool destinations.
The banks of the Sindh stream became a hub of activity, with people setting up tents, dipping into the refreshing waters, and enjoying the crisp mountain air.
“This weather is unbearable in Srinagar right now. We couldn’t sit inside the house, so we came here to spend a day. The breeze and water make it much more comfortable,” said a visitor from Srinagar.
The influx of visitors has also led to a temporary boom for small vendors and shopkeepers in the area, who are catering to the growing needs of tourists.
However, authorities and locals alike have urged visitors to maintain cleanliness and avoid littering, to preserve the natural beauty of the region.
With the heatwave expected to persist, more people are expected to continue seeking relief in Kashmir’s cooler retreats, with Sonamarg remaining one of the top choices for those looking to escape the scorching heat. (KNO)
