Ganderbal,Bandipora, Nov 5, KNT: The Srinagar-Leh highway has been closed for vehicular movement following fresh snowfall in the higher reaches of central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, particularly at Zojila, Sonamarg, Minimarg, and Drass, officials said on Wednesday morning.
According to officials, snowfall began around 6 PM on Tuesday in the health resort areas, leading to a sharp fall in temperature and making the road surface slippery. The authorities immediately halted vehicular traffic as a precautionary measure to prevent mishaps.
Traffic Police sources informed the news agency Kashmir News Trust that several vehicles were stranded on both sides of the highway following the closure. “Nearly nine inches of snow were recorded at Zojila and around five inches at Sonamarg,” an official said.
The Meteorological Department had earlier forecast light to moderate snowfall in the higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir, a prediction that materialized with Wednesday’s spell across the region.
Meanwhile, authorities have advised travellers to refrain from undertaking journeys along the route until clearance operations are completed and the highway is deemed safe for travel.
Fresh snowfall forces closure of Gurez–Bandipora road; authorities urge travellers to confirm status before journey
The Gurez–Bandipora road has been closed for traffic after fresh snowfall at Razdhan Pass rendered the stretch slippery and unsafe for movement. The early winter snowfall, which began late last night, has blanketed the upper reaches of north Kashmir, including Gurez, Tulail, and adjoining mountain areas, marking the first major spell of the season.
Officials told the news agency Kashmir News Trust that the road has been closed as a precautionary measure due to continuous snowfall and poor visibility along the Razdhan Pass. “The road surface has turned extremely slippery, making vehicular movement risky. Only emergency vehicles are being allowed under strict supervision,” an official from the district administration said.
Locals reported that snowfall started around midnight and intensified during early morning hours, cutting off the remote Gurez Valley from the rest of Bandipora district. The administration has advised people and drivers to avoid unnecessary travel until weather conditions improve and road clearance operations are completed.
The Meteorological Department confirmed that a western disturbance is currently affecting Jammu and Kashmir, bringing snowfall to higher reaches and light rainfall in the plains. “Intermittent snowfall may continue over the next 24 hours in north and central Kashmir, including Gurez, Razdhan, and Sonamarg areas,” a MeT official said.
Authorities have urged travellers to verify the road status from the Police Control Room Bandipora or the District Administration Office before undertaking any journey towards Gurez.
The fresh snowfall has led to a noticeable drop in temperatures, forcing locals to turn to traditional heating methods as winter conditions tighten their grip on the Valley.
