Jammu And Kashmir: In a heartwarming display of hospitality, residents of the Gund area in Central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district opened their homes to stranded tourists as heavy snowfall wreaked havoc across the region on Friday evening. With roadblocks and treacherous conditions rendering travel impossible, many visitors found themselves in dire need of shelter and warmth.
As temperatures plummeted and uncertainty loomed, local residents spotted different group of tourists struggling to find refuge. Without a moment’s hesitation, people led them to a nearby mosques, where they were welcomed by the imam and community members who quickly arranged for their comfort. The traditional hamam provided much-needed warmth, transforming a potentially frightening experience into one of safety and kindness.
The sudden snowstorm not only left hundreds of tourists stranded in areas like Gund, Gagangir, Kulan on Srinagar – Sonamarg road, but also overwhelmed local accommodations. With hotels rapidly filling up, locals stepped up to provide shelter, food, and companionship. “Despite the harsh weather and limited resources, our community came together to help the stranded tourists in need,” a local told News24.
Tourists expressed profound gratitude for the generosity they encountered during this challenging time. A tourist from MP said, “The people of Kashmir are incredibly kind. When our vehicles got stuck due to the snow, the locals opened their homes to us. Their warmth and care in such difficult conditions will always remain in our hearts.”
As the snow continued to fall throughout the night, the mosque became a sanctuary where stories were shared, laughter echoed, and bonds were formed. What began as a terrifying ordeal transformed into an unforgettable memory of compassion and connection.
When dawn broke and the storm subsided, the roads were cleared, allowing the tourists to resume their journey. Before departing, they expressed their heartfelt thanks to the imam and the villagers who had cared for them: “Thank you for saving us last night. You turned a frightening moment into a story we will tell for the rest of our lives.”
In addition to the local residents’ efforts, police and army teams also played a crucial role in assisting stranded tourists and residents. They provided food and facilitated medical assistance for those in need, showcasing a united front in the face of adversity.
People and tourists stranded along with Srinagar – Jammu National Highway were also taken care by the police and other security forces and provided them food and shelter.
