Fresh snow in higher reaches of Valley, gondola services suspended in Gulmarg

The weather in Kashmir continues to remain wet, with moderate snowfall recorded in higher reaches and rainfall across most of the plains. Authorities have suspended gondola services at the famous tourist resort of Gulmarg for the day due to the inclement weather.

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Director of Met Srinagar, Mukhtar Ahmed, told The Tribune that the upper reaches of the Valley experienced fresh snowfall on Wednesday, with “moderate to heavy” snowfall in some areas. “While the plains have recorded rainfall, there are chances of snowfall on Thursday and Friday,” he added.

The ski resort of Gulmarg recorded the highest accumulation of 33.0 cm of snow, according to the Meteorological Centre Srinagar. Snowfall has also been reported in the upper reaches of Kupwara.

In its weather forecast, the MeT office stated that from February 26-28, the weather will remain generally cloudy with light to moderate rain or snow at most places, with isolated heavy rain or snow over both the Kashmir and Jammu divisions. The department further indicated that weather would remain generally cloudy, with scattered light rain and snow on March 1 and 2.

The MeT has also issued an advisory regarding potential disruptions in surface transportation, particularly over Sadhna Pass, Razdhan Pass, Sonamarg-Zojila-Gumri axis, Mughal Road, Sinthan Pass and other major roads in the hilly districts. Farmers have been advised to suspend irrigation and other agricultural operations due to the ongoing weather conditions.

Meanwhile, the Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation, which manages the gondola services at Gulmarg, confirmed on Wednesday that the services were suspended due to adverse weather conditions at Kongdoori and Affarwat, the two phases of the gondola. “Full refund of tickets shall be made as per norms,” the corporation said.