Kashmir Valley Paralysed: Heavy Snowfall Blocks NH-44, Cancels 26 Flights at Srinagar, Triggers Anantnag Power Blackouts
The Kashmir Valley reels under the season’s first major snowfall, with Jammu-Srinagar NH-44 completely shut near Navyug Tunnel, Srinagar International Airport cancelling all 26 flights, and widespread power outages hitting Anantnag district amid biting cold and gusty winds. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah oversees emergency response as snow clearance and restoration efforts intensify across the region.
NH-44 Shutdown: Lifeline Cut Off
Traffic authorities halted all movement on the crucial Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) after moderate to heavy snow piled up between Ramsoo, Navyug Tunnel, and Banihal-Qazigund stretch, stranding hundreds of vehicles and cutting off the Valley from Jammu plains.
Alternate routes like Mughal Road and Sinthan Pass remain closed; J&K Traffic Police advises no travel until clearance. Mechanical snow removers and workers battle 2-4 feet accumulation in high passes.
Srinagar Airport Grounded: 26 Flights Axed
Srinagar International Airport suspended all operations, cancelling 26 flights including IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Air India services due to runway blanketed in snow and poor visibility from gusty winds.
Airlines issued advisories for passengers; airport teams clear snow with specialized equipment, but normalization unlikely before evening. IMD flags active Western Disturbance fueling the onslaught.
Anantnag Power Crisis: Outages Widespread
Anantnag faces severe power disruptions with supply dipping to 100 MW from 1,700 MW statewide; MLA directs administration for urgent snow clearance around substations and line repairs damaged by winds.
Residents in snow-hit areas like Kokernag rescued by police; KPDCL prioritizes essential services amid outages lasting hours. Valley-wide blackouts reported in Kupwara, Baramulla too.
Official Response & Warnings
- CM Omar Abdullah: Winds crippled infra, but teams restoring power swiftly; appeals for caution during peak snow phase.
- IMD: Heavy snow till Jan 24, another pulse on Jan 26; schools shut in hilly districts, tourists advised against high reaches.
- Rescue ops: Police evacuate stranded in Anantnag; NDRF/SDRF on standby for avalanches or roadblocks.
- Boost for water: Snowfall heralds good summer reserves despite transport woes.
Valley-Wide Disruptions Ignite Resilience
From Gulmarg’s tourist influx to locals stocking essentials, Kashmir demonstrates grit amid isolation. Ground teams push 24/7 for normalcy as Valley transforms into winter wonderland laced with challenges.
