Heavy snowfall grips J&K’s Doda for second day, residents advised to stay indoors

Heavy snowfall continued for the second consecutive day in the Bhalesa area of Doda district in Jammu and Kashmir, severely affecting daily life and prompting the administration to advise residents to stay indoors as a safety measure.

After a prolonged dry spell of nearly three months, snowfall began from Friday midnight across the plains and upper reaches of Bhalesa and adjoining areas. Around one foot of snow was recorded in the plains, while upper hilly regions received nearly two to three feet, leading to a sharp drop in temperatures below zero.

The heavy snow disrupted essential services, including electricity and water supply, while highways and link roads were blocked due to snow accumulation, landslides, and fallen trees. Authorities allowed only emergency services to operate until weather conditions improve.

Snowfall was also reported from Banihal in Ramban district, which witnessed the season’s first heavy snow, along with Baramulla, Budgam, and Batote. Reduced visibility and freezing conditions intensified winter across the region.

Meanwhile, the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway was closed as a precautionary measure due to slippery roads, and air travel was disrupted with several flights to and from Srinagar cancelled. Authorities said traffic would remain halted at safer locations until conditions stabilise.