Fresh Snowfall Hits Higher Reaches, Roads and Schools Closed in Gurez and Tulail

Srinagar, Apr 19 : Erratic weather conditions continued to disrupt life across Kashmir on Saturday, as higher reaches witnessed fresh snowfall and plains were lashed by intermittent rainfall, leading to a significant drop in day temperatures.

According to reports, moderate snowfall was recorded in several higher-altitude areas of North Kashmir, including Tulail and Gurez in Bandipora district. The fresh snow accumulation forced the closure of key roads and prompted authorities to suspend school classes as a precautionary measure.

The Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Gurez ordered the suspension of classes up to the 8th standard in Tulail and up to the 5th standard in Gurez Tehsil, citing student safety amid continuous snowfall and poor weather conditions.

The Gurez-Bandipora road, a lifeline for residents of this remote border region, has been closed for vehicular traffic following the snowfall, officials confirmed. The road closure has affected movement and supply chains in the region, heightening concerns for locals.

Similarly, in South Kashmir’s Anantnag district, Sinthan Top, a strategic mountain pass connecting Anantnag with Kishtwar in Jammu via National Highway has also been closed for two days due to overnight snowfall and slippery road conditions.

Adding to the weather-related chaos, several districts across the Valley experienced a fierce windstorm accompanied by hail during the late hours of Friday. The gusty winds uprooted tree branches and damaged rooftops in multiple locations, sparking panic among residents.

The Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for the Kashmir Valley, warning of continued erratic weather conditions until April 20. Officials have advised the public, especially those in higher altitudes, to avoid unnecessary travel and take safety precautions.