Srinagar, Nov 13: Traffic authorities on Friday advised people to avoid journey on Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, the only road link connecting Kashmir with the rest of world, in view of the weather advisory for rains and snow.
“In view of inclement weather prediction issued by MeT department (rain and snowfall) in J&K for next few days, there are chances of blockade of NHW -44. People are advised to avoid journey on Jammu-Srinagar NHW-44,” a traffic department official told GNS.
“However, subject to fair weather and better road condition, Light Motor Vehicles (passenger) shall be allowed from Jammu towards Srinagar on the highway,” the official said, adding, “Commuters are advised to follow the SOP issued by the Govt to prevent the spread of Covid-19.”
The weatherman had already issued an advisory and forecasted widespread rain and snowfall from 13 to 15 November in Jammu and Kashmir.
“An active Western Disturbance is most likely to affect the Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh and adjoining areas from 13th (evening) to 15th (late night) November 2020,” reads the advisory issued earlier this week by deputy director of the local Meteorological department Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed.
“Under the influence of this weather system, widespread moderate Rain/snow is expected in Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh regions.”
He said light rain or snow would commence at a few places of Kashmir on the night of November 13 and thereafter increase in intensity and distribution with its peak during subsequent two days and gradual decrease thereafter.
“Main activity of this system, moderate to heavy rain/snow at isolated places is most likely during 14th & 15th November,” he said, warning that the system may cause heavy rain or snow mainly in upper reaches of Kashmir including Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Baramulla, Bandipora (Gurez & Tulail Valley) and Kupwara (Karnah Sector), Shopian, Qazigund-Banihal axis, Pirpanjal Range of Jammu Division, Drass (Gumri and Minamarg) and Zanskar subdivision of ladakh.
Referring to the impact due to it, the officer said the weather system may lead to temporary disruption of air and surface transportation mainly on Jammu- Srinagar and Srinagar-Leh Highways, Mughal road and other major roads.
“Landslides and shooting stones (can occur) in vulnerable spots of Jammu- Srinagar/Srinagar-Leh Highway,” he said, adding, “(it) may disrupt agricultural operations like apple harvesting and orchard management.”
There would also be a dip in day temperature and slight increase in night temperature, the officials added.
