Srinagar: Kashmiris are waiting in anticipation as they brace themselves for the arrival of snowfall as forecasted by the Meteorological Department. As the calendar inches towards the conclusion of the 40-day period of Chillai Kalan, locals are yearning for the beauty and challenges that the snow-covered landscape may soon bestow.
An independent weather forecaster has predicted light rain and snow showers over plains of Kashmir on 26th of January. He said the second Western Disturbances are expected from 28-January to 30th January, which may cause moderate snowfall over higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir with Doodhpathri, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg, Gurez, Sinthan Top and Peer Ki Gali having chances of heavy snowfall.
During the second Western Disturbances, the plains of Kashmir may witness light to moderate rain/snow with few inches of snowfall possible over some plains. Jammu may witness light to moderate rain showers and snowfall over the higher reaches of the region, he was quoted as saying. The forecaster said a third disturbance may affect the region with a possibilty of 60-70% from 30th January to 2nd February.
According to him, the third Western Disturbance will have a stronger intensity as compared to the first two. He said that no continuous precipitation or snowfall is expected anywhere and that the temperatures will significantly drop from 25th January.
Speaking to Kashmir Observer, a distinguished author and poet Zareef Ahmad Zareef said that snowfall is a lifeline to Kashmir which keeps the Kashmir valley alive in the sense that it provides water for all seasons.
“In the absence of snowfall, the looming threat of water scarcity casts a shadow over us. Once, the winter months brought freezing temperatures, securing water for the remaining seasons, now all that has changed” Zareef said.
“There were times when snowfall was absent for extended periods, yet the mountains teemed with glaciers, mitigating the snowfall deficit. Today, inhabitants of remote villages have to take to the streets to protest water scarcity,” he added.
Zareef while pointing out the adverse effects of deforestation and climate change, criticized the present generation for disrupting the environment despite possessing knowledge. “Kashmir valley flourished with nearly 42,000 majestic chinar trees, today, a mere 3,300 remain. The lush green cover has dwindled significantly, underscoring the profound changes we’ve witnessed,” he said.
Climate activist, Dr. Raja Muzaffar Bhat, also voiced concern over the much delayed snowfall, and said, “It has been around 45 days since we had precipitation, leaving people high and dry. Kashmir is witnessing temperatures surpassing those of cities like Delhi, Lucknow and Jammu. Flowers are prematurely sprouting and tourism is hitting a low.”
He added that the activity in tourist hotspots like Gulmarg has taken a severe hit, leaving sledge drivers, skiers, and others in the tourism sector jobless. “The anticipation for snowfall looms as uncertainty hangs in the air. Businesses, particularly those dealing in winter jackets and shoes, are witnessing a noticeable drop in sales, reflecting the impact of these unusual weather patterns on people’s livelihoods,” Raja said.
“I hope we have a heavy snowfall and all these woes come to an end”
President of the Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers Cum Dealers Union, Bashir Ahmad, expressed the collective sentiment, stating that the fruit growers are eagerly anticipating the snowfall.
“The deficit in rainfall and snowfall has cast a shadow over both the agriculture and horticulture sectors of the Kashmir valley. During Chillai Kallan, precipitation plays a crucial role in keeping the land irrigated and the soil moist. However, the shortfall in rainfall poses a significant threat to fruit production,” Bashir said.
Bashir emphasized that the prolonged dry spell not only jeopardizes the quantity but also compromises the quality of the fruit.
“Fruit growers are fervently praying for a substantial snowfall to break the dry spell and safeguard the interests of farmers in the long run.”
The anticipation of snowfall brings hope to businesses that rely on winter tourism, as the scenic beauty enhanced by snow not only captivates visitors but also provides livelihood opportunities for many. From hotels in popular resorts like Gulmarg gearing up to welcome tourists seeking snow-related activities to local businesses, such as those selling winter jackets and shoes, anticipating a boost in sales—snowfall is seen as a transformative force for both the economy and the people’s livelihoods in the Kashmir Valley.
Raja Khadim, who has a shoe shop at Lawaypora, in the outskirts of Srinagar said that he has witnessed very less business in the last few weeks.
“I have witnessed losses in the last few weeks, with the weather forecast for snowfall, I hope it boosts our sales in the near future” Khadim said.
Authorities are also making preparations to ensure the smooth functioning of essential services during the snowfall. Snow-clearing machinery is being mobilized to keep roads accessible, and residents are advised to take necessary precautions to navigate the wintry conditions safely.
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