Air traffic to and from Srinagar International Airport was restored on Sunday, a day after heavy snowfall led to the cancellation of all flights to the Kashmir Valley. An official from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) confirmed that flight operations had resumed and expressed optimism for a return to normalcy.

The Valley experienced its first significant snowfall of the season on Friday evening, which persisted into Saturday, impacting not only air travel but also ground transportation. The Srinagar-Jammu national highway was closed, and train services were suspended as snow accumulation made travel hazardous.

As conditions improved, the Jammu-Srinagar highway was reopened for vehicular traffic on Sunday, allowing stranded vehicles to continue their journeys. However, officials advised motorists to exercise caution and adhere to lane discipline due to slippery conditions, particularly between Banihal and Qazigund.

While the highway has been cleared, several other critical routes remain closed. The Mughal Road, an alternative link to the Kashmir Valley from Jammu’s Poonch district, is currently shut due to snow accumulation. Additionally, the Sinthan Pass in Kishtwar and the Sonamarg-Kargil inter-UT road are also inaccessible.

Efforts are underway to clear the Srinagar-Leh highway, with heavy machinery deployed to make it trafficable again.

The recent snowfall has brought a renewed charm to Kashmir’s winter landscape, much to the delight of tourists and locals alike. As visitors arrive to celebrate the New Year, the valley has transformed into a picturesque winter wonderland, attracting those eager to experience its beauty.

This early snowfall marks the onset of ‘Chilla-i-Kalan,’ a 40-day period known for its harsh winter conditions. It is seen as a positive sign for tourism, agriculture, and horticulture in the region, enhancing Kashmir’s appeal during this season.

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