NewKerala.com

Bandipora-Gurez Road Closed as Snowfall Hits Kashmir Valley Traffic

Vehicular movement on the strategic Bandipora-Gurez road has been suspended due to fresh, heavy snowfall in the higher reaches of Bandipora district. The India Meteorological Department forecasts widespread light-to-moderate snowfall and rain for the region until March 31. This follows earlier traffic disruptions in late March after two consecutive snow avalanches struck the same mountainous pass. Meanwhile, in a contrasting scene, the Sanasar Valley is seeing a large influx of tourists for spring activities after snow was cleared from the access road.

Key Points: Bandipora-Gurez Road Shut After Snowfall, Avalanches in Kashmir

  • Road closed for vehicular movement
  • Fresh snowfall blankets higher reaches
  • Avalanches previously disrupted traffic
  • Tourists flock to Sanasar Valley
  • IMD predicts more snow until March 31
2 min read

J-K: Heavy snowfall shuts Bandipora-Gurez road for vehicles

Heavy snowfall and avalanches force closure of Bandipora-Gurez road in Kashmir. IMD predicts more snow as tourists flock to Sanasar Valley.

"widespread light-to-moderate snowfall and rain are expected - India Meteorological Department"

Bandipora, March 29

Vehicular movement on the 85-kilometre-long Bandipora-Gurez road has been suspended as a precautionary measure, as fresh snowfall continues to blanket the higher reaches of Bandipora district, including Gurez and Tulail.

Accordign to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), widespread light-to-moderate snowfall and rain are expected from March 28-31 over Jammu-Kashmir-Ladakh-Gilgit-Baltistan-Muzaffarabad, with isolated heavy snow likely on March 30 over the Kashmir Valley.

A day earlier, Kathua recorded the highest maximum temperature at 30.4°C, while Gulmarg was the coolest with a maximum of 13.0°C and a minimum of 3.5°C. Pahalgam recorded the overall lowest temperature at 2.8°C. Katra saw the most significant increase of 5.6°C, while Gulmarg, Jammu, and Bhaderwah showed slight decreases in temperature.

Earlier, vehicular movement in the Gurez Valley of north Kashmir was disturbed on March 23 after two consecutive snow avalanches struck the vital 85-km-long Bandipora-Gurez mountainous pass.

The two back-to-back snow avalanches striking the 85-km-long Bandipora-Gurez area of north Kashmir's Bandipora district severely disrupted traffic movement along the strategic route. Soon after the incident, snow clearance operations were performed by BRO's 56 RCC teams on a war footing to restore connectivity.

Meanwhile, Tourists started flocking to the bowl-shaped Sanasar Valley in large numbers on March 25 to witness its natural beauty following the onset of spring and the clearance of snow from the Patnitop-Sanasar road in Jammu and Kashmir.

Local stakeholders in Sanasar, including boatmen, hoteliers, and vendors, have begun preparations for a busy season as they anticipate a heavy influx of tourists this year.

The Tulip garden situated alongside the central lake in Sanasar has emerged as a primary highlight for visitors travelling through the Patnitop-Sanasar road this season. According to locals, children and families have started arriving at Sanasar Valley to participate in various tourist activities. Visitors are increasingly choosing Sanasar Valley for its wide range of outdoor activities, from horseback riding to interactive children's games and ziplining.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priya S
On one hand, snowfall is disrupting life in Gurez, and on the other, it's bringing tourists to Sanasar! Nature's dual impact. Glad to hear the local economy in Sanasar is getting a boost. The tulip garden by the lake sounds magical. Hope the BRO teams stay safe while clearing the avalanches.
R
Rajesh Q
Respectfully, while the article focuses on tourism in Sanasar, the real story is the hardship for residents in Gurez and Tulail. Their road is closed, possibly for days. We should be discussing better winter stocking plans and emergency heli-services for these remote areas. Jai Hind to the BRO jawans working in those conditions.
S
Sarah B
The temperature variations are fascinating! Kathua at 30°C and Gulmarg at 3.5°C minimum on the same day. India's diversity is incredible. Stay safe, everyone in the affected areas. Hope the weather clears soon.
V
Vikram M
This is why infrastructure development in our border areas is so crucial. This road is strategic for security and for the local population. Salute to the 56 RCC teams for working on a war footing. We need more all-weather tunnels and roads in these regions.
N
Nisha Z
Planning a trip to Kashmir this April. This article is helpful! Sanasar Valley with tulips and activities sounds perfect for the family. Will keep an eye on the weather forecasts though. Hope the people in Gurez are safe and warm.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50