Sajid Raina
Srinagar, Mar 30: Upper reaches of Kashmir Valley, including Gurez and Tulail, received fresh snowfall on Monday, while plains were lashed by intermittent rainfall, leading to a further dip in temperatures and disruption to normal life.
According to the details available, the ongoing wet spell affected several parts of the Valley, with moderate snowfall reported in upper reaches of North and Central Kashmir and steady rain in plains, accompanied by gusty winds.
The inclement weather triggered landslides and snow accumulation along the Bandipora-Gurez road, particularly near Razdan Top, resulting in the stranding of several vehicles.
In a coordinated rescue operation, the district administration of Bandipora, along with teams from the Mechanical Engineering Department (MED) and the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), safely evacuated 22 vehicles carrying tourists and other passengers.
Officials said the vehicles were stranded at multiple locations due to snow, mudslides and falling rocks, while strong winds added to the challenges faced by rescue teams.
Deputy Commissioner Bandipora Indu Kanwal Chib monitored the operation and directed all departments to ensure the safe evacuation of passengers. The teams worked continuously to clear snow and debris, restoring partial connectivity and facilitating movement.
All stranded tourists were evacuated safely and provided necessary assistance, including medical aid, officials said.
The Meteorological Department has predicted that erratic weather conditions across Jammu and Kashmir will continue till April 10.
Meanwhile, a massive landslide hit Uri in Baramulla, blocking the road, with authorities deploying men and machinery to clear the debris.
According to the MeT Centre, intermittent light to moderate rain and snowfall in higher reaches, accompanied by thunder and gusty winds with speeds of 40-50 kmph, is likely to continue till Monday evening, with improvement expected thereafter.
From March 31 to April 2, brief spells of light rain or snow may occur at isolated places, particularly during late afternoon hours, while generally cloudy conditions with scattered precipitation are expected on April 3 and 4.
Partly cloudy weather is likely between April 5 and 7, followed by fresh spells of light rain or snow at scattered locations from April 8 to 10.
The MeT office has warned of the possibility of moderate rainfall at a few places and moderate snowfall over higher reaches of north and central Kashmir, along with thunder, lightning and gusty winds.
It also cautioned about the risk of landslides at vulnerable locations and advised travellers to follow traffic advisories.
Authorities in Ganderbal, Anantnag and Kupwara districts have issued avalanche warnings in prone areas, urging residents to avoid unnecessary movement until conditions improve.
Farmers have been advised to suspend agricultural activities till April 1 and resume operations between March 31 and April 2 where conditions permit.
Independent weather observers said the current system is expected to weaken from Tuesday morning, although isolated light showers may continue at some places, with largely dry weather expected by mid-week.
