Mughal road closed as high-altitude areas experience fresh snow

Jammu, November 12

As the higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir experienced fresh snow, the Mughal road, connecting the twin districts of Poonch and Rajouri in Jammu region with south Kashmir’s Shopian district, was closed for traffic on Monday as a precautionary measure, officials said.

Light snow was reported from various high-altitude areas, including Peer Ki Gali along the Mughal road, since Sunday night, the officials said.

In view of the snow forecast, especially in the higher reaches, Surankote SDM Saleem Ahmad ordered closure of the Mughal road for three days from Monday.

“…because of the snow from November 1 to 3 at Peer Ki Gali, a number of private and commercial vehicles got stranded on the road, putting the lives of commuters at risk. After tremendous efforts by the police and Army more than 100 people were rescued.

“Keeping in view the above incident and inclement weather conditions and forecast of snow, the vehicular movement stands suspended on the Mughal road with effect from November 12 to 14,” Ahmad said.

The Mughal road was opened for one-way traffic on Saturday after remaining closed for eight days due to heavy snow along Peer Ki Gali.

The meteorological department had predicted widespread rain or snow across the state till November 14.

“Chances of heavy rain or snow are very less, although snowfall of 5 to 10 inches on mountains cannot be ruled out,” State Meteorological Department Director Sonum Lotus said. PTI