Erratic Weather Hits Kashmir Key Roads Closed, Traffic Disrupted

RunWithRugs

2026-03-23 08:36:35

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(MENAFN- Kashmir Observer) ** Srinagar-** Fresh snowfall across higher reaches and heavy rainfall in the plains disrupted normal life across Kashmir on Thursday, forcing the closure of key highways and affecting connectivity in several parts of Jammu and Kashmir.

Officials said popular tourist resorts Gulmarg in Baramulla and Sonamarg in Ganderbal received fresh snowfall, with accumulation of around five to six inches reported in Gulmarg since Wednesday. Intermittent snowfall continued in several upper reaches, including Pir Ki Gali along the Mughal Road, Razdan Top in Gurez, and Sadhna Top in Kupwara.

In contrast, plains including Srinagar witnessed persistent rainfall, leading to a dip in temperatures and a renewed chill ahead of Eid

Fitr.

The fresh spell of weather disrupted road connectivity across the Union Territory. The Srinagar–Kargil highway was closed after continuous snowfall along the Zojila axis, including Drass, Minimarg and Gumri, made the road slippery and unsafe. The closure has snapped surface links between Kashmir and the Kargil region.

Authorities also suspended traffic on the Bandipora–Gurez road via Razdan Pass due to fresh snowfall and hazardous conditions. The Srinagar–Sonamarg–Gumri road and the historic Mughal Road were also shut בעקבות heavy snow accumulation at vulnerable stretches such as Zojila and Peer Ki Gali.

Additionally, the Kishtwar–Sinthan–Anantnag road remains closed, further impacting inter-district movement.

Meanwhile, traffic on the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) continued to move slowly due to single-lane stretches and breakdown of heavy motor vehicles. Commuters have been advised to travel during daytime and adhere to lane discipline.

Officials said snowfall remains active in several areas, reducing visibility and increasing the risk of avalanches in higher reaches. Road clearance operations will begin once weather conditions improve.

The Meteorological Department has forecast erratic weather conditions until March 20, with intermittent rain and snowfall expected across most parts. Higher reaches of the Chenab Valley and south Kashmir may witness moderate to heavy snowfall.

Read Also Kashmir Sees Cooler Days After Warm Winter, Boosting Crop Prospects Rain, Snow Bring Back Winter Chill to Kashmir

The MeT Office has, however, predicted an improvement from March 21, with generally dry weather expected for a few days, offering relief after the ongoing wet spell.

Authorities have urged travellers to check the latest road status before undertaking journeys, as further disruptions cannot be ruled out if weather conditions persist.

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