NVI Correspondent
Srinagar, Jan 30 (NVI): The harshest 40-day winter period, Chilla-e-Kalan, officially ended today on an unusually dry note, with below-average snowfall recorded across Kashmir.
The prolonged dry spell has sparked concerns over water availability, agriculture, and winter tourism in the region.
Unlike previous years, when heavy snowfall would blanket the Valley, this season witnessed sporadic snowfall in higher reaches while the plains remained largely dry. The absence of significant precipitation has also contributed to colder nights and warmer-than-usual days, as clear skies prevented the usual winter chill from intensifying.
However, the Meteorological Department has predicted a fresh spell of rain and snow in the first week of February, which could provide some relief to farmers, orchardists, and tourism stakeholders who rely on seasonal snowfall.
With Chilla -e-Kalan now over, Kashmir transitions into the 20-day Chillai-Khurd (lesser cold) phase, followed by the 10-day Chillai-Bachha (baby cold) period, before the onset of spring. While residents remain hopeful for late-season snowfall, experts warn that the prolonged dry spell could impact water resources, including drinking water supply, irrigation, and glacier reserves, which are critical for the summer months.
Authorities and environmentalists are closely monitoring the situation, as any significant deviation in snowfall patterns could have long-term consequences for Kashmir’s ecosystem and economy. (News Vibes of India)
