Jammu & Kashmir popularly called has heaven on earth has received heavy snowfall continued for the second consecutive day in the Bhalesa area of Doda district. Snow is obstructing roads and services, the SDM Gandoh, Bhalesa, on behalf of the Doda district administration, advised residents to stay indoors as a safety precaution. Temperatures have dipped below zero.
Doda's Bhalesa and surrounding areas experienced significant snowfall after a three-month dry spell, bringing relief to residents. Plains received around one foot of snow, while higher elevations saw two to three feet. This heavy snowfall disrupted essential services like electricity and water. Roads, including highways, are blocked by landslides, fallen trees, and snow accumulation, restricting access to emergency services only. Banihal town in Ramban district also received its first heavy snowfall of the season, creating winter conditions with plummeting temperatures and reduced visibility.
Significant snowfall in Baramulla, Budgam, and Batote blanketed the region. The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) closed on Friday due to heavy rain and snowfall, halting traffic at Jakhani Chowk in Udhampur. Srinagar Airport and IndiGo Airlines temporarily suspended and cancelled flights due to the weather conditions.
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Authorities halted all traffic on NH-44 up to Ramsoo due to slippery road conditions as a precaution.