Srinagar, January 27, 2026 : Fresh snowfall lashed Kashmir on Tuesday, draping the Valley in white and bringing daily life to a standstill as road, rail and air traffic were severely disrupted. The Srinagar–Jammu National Highway, the Valley’s only all-weather road link, was closed after heavy accumulation of snow on the Qazigund–Banihal stretch, officials said.
Overnight snowfall triggered by a western disturbance affected almost all parts of Kashmir. While plains including Srinagar witnessed light to moderate snowfall, higher reaches received moderate to heavy snow. Popular tourist destinations such as Gulmarg, Sonamarg and Pahalgam turned into picturesque winter landscapes, drawing attention even as mobility remained hit.
Authorities said snowfall was reported across central, north and south Kashmir districts. However, the weather conditions led to suspension of vehicular movement on the national highway, with no traffic being allowed till clearance operations are completed. Road-clearing teams have been pressed into service, but reopening will depend on weather improvement.
Rail services were also partially affected, with several trains between Banihal and Budgam cancelled due to snow accumulation on tracks. Air traffic bore the brunt as well, with operations at Srinagar International Airport suspended because of snow on the runway. Airport authorities said around 50 flights — 25 arrivals and 25 departures — were cancelled.
Airlines including IndiGo and Air India advised passengers to check with their carriers for updates and alternate arrangements. The widespread disruption has left many passengers, especially tourists, stranded across the Valley.
In response, police and district administrations activated control rooms and helpline numbers to assist people amid the harsh weather. The Meteorological Department forecast light to moderate rain or snow at most places till Tuesday evening, with the possibility of moderate to heavy snowfall at isolated locations. Light snowfall may continue at a few places on Wednesday as well.
Meanwhile, the Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory Disaster Management Authority (JKUTDMA) issued high and medium intensity avalanche warnings for 11 districts. High danger avalanche warning was sounded for areas above 2,000 metres in Ganderbal, while medium danger warnings were issued for Anantnag, Bandipora, Baramulla, Kulgam, Kupwara, Doda, Kishtwar, Poonch, Rajouri and Ramban. The advisory remains effective till Tuesday evening.
Authorities have urged residents and tourists to avoid unnecessary travel and strictly follow advisories until weather conditions improve.
