Freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall disrupted daily life across Srinagar and several parts of Jammu and Kashmir. Cold wave conditions strengthened as icy winds swept through northern India. Dense fog reduced visibility in many regions, including the National Capital Region. The India Meteorological Department said strong western Himalayan winds pushed temperatures down sharply. Officials warned that the cold spell may intensify further over the next few days.
Continuous snowfall affected Ganderbal, Sopore, Bandipora, and Kupwara districts. Snow covered roads up to five inches deep and slowed vehicle movement. Ice buried parked vehicles, rooftops, and trees. Local authorities restricted travel in vulnerable areas to avoid accidents and delays.
Dal Lake in Srinagar partially froze, drawing attention for its rare winter view. Heavy snowfall also hit Banihal, where nearly one foot of snow piled up at the railway station. The Jammu–Srinagar National Highway was closed near the Navyug Tunnel, leaving thousands of vehicles stranded.
Officials shut the Mughal Road and the Srinagar–Leh highway due to safety concerns. Authorities declared school holidays in Rajouri, Poonch, and Kathua districts. Rescue teams saved more than 100 stranded people, while crews cleared snow using heavy machinery. The government activated control rooms across districts to handle emergencies.
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