Life Back To Normal In Kashmir After Snowfall, Tourism Booms

Suhail Khan

Srinagar, Jan 28: Life returned to normal in the Kashmir Valley on Wednesday after being paralysed by a fresh spell of moderate to heavy snowfall a day earlier.

Official sources informed Kashmir Convener that air, road, and rail connectivity have resumed operations. Flight operations at Srinagar Airport and vehicular movement on the strategic Jammu-Srinagar National Highway were restored on Wednesday morning, while rail services also resumed operation fully.

Director Srinagar Airport, Javed Anjum, confirmed to Kashmir Convener that flight services resumed following a significant improvement in weather conditions on Wednesday.

The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway has been reopened for two-way traffic. However, other key routes, including the Mughal Road, Srinagar-Leh Highway, and Sinthan Road, remain closed for traffic.

Meanwhile, night temperatures continued to dip below freezing across the valley.

Srinagar recorded a minimum of 0.1°C, while the popular tourist resorts of Gulmarg and Pahalgam shivered at -9.8°C and -6.4°C, respectively.

The Meteorological Department has forecast generally dry weather from January 29 to 31, with the possibility of light to moderate rain/snow at scattered places on February 1 and 2. An advisory has been issued urging travellers and farmers to exercise caution.

The fresh snowfall has given a massive boost to the valley’s tourism sector, with tourist footfall nearly doubling at premier destinations like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg.

Speaking to Kashmir Convener, Syed Qamar Sajad (JKAS), Director of Tourism, Kashmir, and Managing Director of the Gulmarg Gondola, stated that the rush of tourists, especially skiers, has increased significantly from across the country.

“This is a very positive sign for the restoration of the tourism industry. The department is making all efforts to facilitate tourists and provide the best services, including online passes for skiing activities,” he said.

Officials reported that Gulmarg has witnessed a surge in arrivals, with hotels and resorts experiencing high occupancy.

A similar upward trend in tourist activity was noted in Pahalgam, Sonamarg, and Srinagar city.

A tourism official said the momentum in tourist arrivals is bringing much-needed relief to local businesses, marking a strong recovery for the sector.

The recent snow spells have also provided crucial relief to horticulture by replenishing soil moisture and improving prospects for winter sports and activities.

Sanjina, a tourist from Mumbai, told Kashmir Convener, “We came hoping for a winter wonderland, and Kashmir delivered beyond our dreams! The fresh snow in Gulmarg is perfect for skiing, and seeing life buzz back so quickly after the snowfall is incredible.”

She added, “The paralyzing snow yesterday was a sight to behold, and waking up to cleared roads and open airports today shows the resilience here. The chill is intense, but the warmth of the hospitality and the stunning white landscapes make it all worthwhile.”

Amarjita Kaur, another visitor, said, “As skiers, this fresh powder is exactly what we were seeking. To hear that tourist footfall has nearly doubled shows we all had the same idea – there’s no better time to experience Kashmir’s magic.”

She said, “There’s a special energy here now. The snow has transformed everything into a pristine paradise, and the rush of activity in the resorts feels like a celebration. It’s heartening to see our visit also bringing relief to local businesses.”

Other tourists who spoke with Kashmir Convener said, “We braved the cold snap for this – and it was worth every shiver. The mountains around Pahalgam under a fresh blanket of snow are breathtaking. The efficient snow clearance meant we could travel safely and enjoy every moment.”