NVI Correspondent
Srinagar, Dec 22 (NVI)
The bone-chilling cold wave continues to grip the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh plunging temperatures to freezing levels and disrupting the normal life.
Shopian emerged as the coldest place in the Kashmir Valley, recording a staggering -8.1°C, while Anantnag and Kulgam followed at -6.6°C and -5.8°C, respectively. The popular tourist destinations of Gulmarg and Pahalgam registered -4.6°C and -4.9°C, adding to the frosty charm but also causing hardships for locals and tourists. Srinagar, the summer capital, recorded -4.6°C, intensifying the chill, while Sonamarg saw temperatures drop to -7.0°C.
Frozen water bodies and icy roads have disrupted transportation and limited access to essential supplies, significantly impacting daily life in the Valley.
In contrast to the Valley’s deep freeze, the Jammu region experienced a mix of chilly and relatively mild weather. Padder in Kishtwar district recorded -5.7°C, while Banihal dipped to -1.3°C. Jammu city remained comparatively warmer at 6.5°C, and Ramban recorded the highest minimum temperature in the region at 8.1°C. Popular destinations like Katra saw milder conditions, with a minimum of 7.2°C.
Ladakh recorded the lowest temperatures, with Kargil registering a frigid -8.8°C and Leh at -7.4°C. While the Drass sector’s data remains unavailable, it is presumed to be even colder, given its reputation as one of the coldest inhabited places on Earth.
The severe cold has led to frozen water pipelines, power outages in remote areas, and slippery roads, further hampering transportation. The famous Dal Lake in Srinagar has begun to freeze along its edges, while agricultural activities remain on hold across the region. The demand for heating appliances, firewood, and warm clothing has surged as residents brace for worsening conditions.
Despite the challenges, the snow-covered landscapes of Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg continue to attract tourists, eager to experience the Valley’s winter wonderland. However, authorities have advised caution due to icy roads and the risk of avalanches in higher altitudes.
The Meteorological Department Srinagar has predicted that the cold wave will persist with no significant rise in temperatures expected in the coming days. Residents have been urged to stay indoors during peak cold hours and take measures to insulate water pipelines to prevent freezing.
With “Chilai-e-Kalan,” the harshest 40-day winter period, tightening its grip, the people of Kashmir and Ladakh are preparing for even more challenging days ahead.(News Vibes of India)
