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J&K's First Snowfall: CM Omar Abdullah Prioritizes Power, Water Restoration

Following the season's first heavy snowfall across Jammu and Kashmir, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah stated his administration's immediate priority is restoring electricity, water supply, and clearing vital roads. The snowfall, which blanketed regions including Banihal, Doda, Baramulla, and Batote, has led to road closures like the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway and disrupted air travel at Srinagar Airport. Abdullah emphasized the snowfall's importance for summer water supply and anticipated an increase in tourist arrivals to the valley. Residents have welcomed the snowfall after a prolonged dry spell, despite the temporary disruptions to transport and utilities.

Key Points: Omar Abdullah on J&K Snowfall: Focus on Restoring Essential Services

  • First major snowfall of season hits J&K
  • CM prioritizes restoring essential services
  • Roads and highways closed due to snow
  • Air travel disrupted with flight cancellations
  • Tourism boost expected after snowfall
2 min read

Focus on restoring power, water supply: CM Omar Abdullah after snowfall

After season's first heavy snowfall, J&K CM Omar Abdullah directs efforts to restore power, water, and clear roads. Tourism expected to rise.

"We had been waiting for snowfall... The focus is on power, water supply and road clearing. - Omar Abdullah"

Srinagar, January 23

Following the season's first snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday said that the focus of his government was on restoring essential services like power and water supply and clearing the roads.

Speaking to reporters, CM Omar Abdullah said, "We had been waiting for snowfall. We were able to supply only 100 megawatt of electricity this morning as compared to 1700 megawatt due to strong winds and current weather".

"Important roads are being cleared and opened. The focus is on power, water supply and road clearing. This snowfall is very important to us, as it benefits us during the summer season".

He further said that more tourists can be expected in the valley after the snowfall.

"This season Srinagar has not received snowfall till now, even when the airport received 4 inches of snowfall...We can expect more tourists after the snowfall in the Kashmir Valley."

The Banihal town of Ramban district on Friday witnessed the season's first heavy snowfall as fresh snow blanketed the entire region, bringing winter conditions in full force.

The snowfall began late last night and continued for several hours, leading to a sharp drop in temperature and reduced visibility.

The plains and upper reaches of Doda's Bhalesa and its adjoining areas also saw their first snowfall after a prolonged dry spell of nearly three months. People expressed a sense of significant relief and happiness at the much-awaited snowfall.

Meanwhile, Baramulla, Budgam, and the hill resort town of Batote in Ramban also received a significant amount of snowfall, covering the area in a mesmerising white spell.

The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) was closed on Friday due to heavy rain and snowfall, with movement also stopped at Jakhani Chowk in Udhampur.

Snowfall also disrupted air travel, with Srinagar Airport and IndiGo Airlines announcing temporary suspension and cancellation of several flights.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Finally some snowfall! It's a blessing for the farmers and the water table. But the government must ensure the infrastructure is ready every year. The drop from 1700 MW to 100 MW is concerning – shows we need more resilient power systems.
R
Rohit P
The highway closure and flight cancellations are always a major headache. While snowfall is beautiful, the disruption to travel and daily life is real. Authorities should have better contingency plans by now.
S
Sarah B
The pictures must be stunning! Wishing safety and warmth to all the residents. It's smart to focus on essential services first. Hope the tourists who visit are respectful of the local environment and culture.
V
Vikram M
This snowfall is crucial for our rivers and agriculture in the plains too. But sir, with all due respect, statements are not enough. We see these issues every winter. Action and results on the ground are what matter. Jai Hind.
K
Kavya N
Can imagine the relief and happiness of the people there after a long dry spell! Snow is like a festival in Kashmir. Stay safe everyone, and may the essential supplies reach every home quickly.

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