Srinagar: The weather situation in the summer capital has escalated from a scenic snowfall to a potential safety hazard. The Srinagar Administration has issued an urgent advisory asking residents to restrict movement and stay indoors until January 31, 2026. If you were planning a shikara ride or a highway journey, cancel it immediately.
The Official Advisory: What You Must Do
In response to the forecast of widespread rain and snow, the District Administration, led by the Deputy Commissioner, has activated emergency protocols.
- Movement Restriction: Public is advised to avoid all unnecessary travel. Visibility is dropping rapidly, and roads are extremely slippery.
- Important: The Srinagar-Jammu National Highway is currently closed due to heavy snow accumulation at Banihal and shooting stones at Ramban.
- Dal Lake Warning: A specific ban has been placed on Shikara wallas, tourists, and sand miners. No one is allowed to cross Dal Lake or River Jhelum without verifying safety conditions first.
- Landslide Risk: Those living in mud houses or near slopes in the outskirts are advised to remain vigilant for landslides.
Emergency Helpline Numbers (Save These Now)
The District Emergency Operation Centre (DEOC) and Police Control Room (PCR) are active 24×7.
1. District Emergency Operation Centre (DEOC):
- 9103998355
- 9103998356
- 9103998357
2. Police Control Room (PCR) Srinagar:
- Landline: 0194-2477567 / 0194-2477568
- Mobile: 9596222550 / 9596222551
Why This Matters To You
This isn’t just a “cold day.” The simultaneous disruption of air and surface transport means you could be stranded.
- Flights: Operations at Srinagar Airport are severely impacted. 58 flight cancellations (29 arrivals/29 departures) have been confirmed today due to snow on the runway.
- Power: Heavy snow has caused snapped lines in several areas. Power disruptions are reported in the outskirts and remote belts—keep your emergency lights and phones fully charged.
- Health: Slippery pavements are causing a spike in orthopedic injuries; elderly residents should strictly stay home.
Key Highlights
- 🚨 Status: RESTRICT MOVEMENT (Until Jan 31).
- ⚠️ Danger Zone: Dal Lake, River Jhelum, Hilly Outskirts.
- ✈️ Travel: 58 Flights Cancelled today; check status before leaving.
- 💡 Action: Save the DEOC number (9103998355) immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A: No. The highway is closed. Traffic has been halted due to heavy snow accumulation at the Banihal tunnel and shooting stones at Ramban. Contact TCU Srinagar (0194-2450022) before considering travel.
A: Schools in the Kashmir Valley are already closed for the winter vacation. Tuition centers may still operate, but students are advised to use extreme caution given the road conditions.
A: While Gulmarg is open, the road from Tangmarg is treacherous. Vehicles without anti-skid chains are strictly prohibited from proceeding.
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