Monday, November 25, 2024 Jammu and Kashmir rejoiced as the season’s first snowfall ended a two-month drought, reviving tourism and bringing much-needed relief to agriculture and locals. Residents of Jammu and Kashmir finally found relief from an extended dry spell as the region received much-needed rainfall, while the higher-altitude areas experienced the season’s first snowfall overnight. The prolonged dry weather had adversely impacted the agriculture sector, fueled widespread viral infections, and hindered the tourism industry.

However, the fresh snowfall brought a wave of hope as a thin blanket of snow enveloped the hills of Kashmir, the surrounding ranges of Bhaderwah Valley, and parts of Ramban, Kishtwar, Udhampur, and Sarthal in the Jammu division. Guldanda meadows, situated along the Bhaderwah-Basohli-Pathankot highway, emerged as a favorite snow destination last year due to its abundant early snowfall in October. This year, however, it remained devoid of visitors owing to the prolonged dry weather.

Last night’s snowfall has revived the area’s tourism potential, with visitors from across the country already flocking to enjoy the fresh snow. Snowfall was also reported in the higher reaches of Kishtwar, Ramban, Kathua, Udhampur, Rajouri, and Poonch, accompanied by a noticeable dip in temperatures. According to a Meteorological Department official, Jammu recorded a minimum temperature of 16.

1°C, Katra (Vaishno Devi) 12.5°C, Batote 5.5°C, Banihal 3.

7°C, and L.