Kashmir Valley received a fresh spell of snowfall early this morning today. The snowfall led to the closure of the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway. Jammu and Kashmir Police's traffic department said that the National Highway has been closed due to shooting stones and snowfall between Ramban and Banihal areas.&nbsp;

Many flights were delayed at the Srinagar airport, but the air traffic resumed later. The Met Department has predicted Snow and rains across the Kashmir region in the next few days. Due to the Snowfall, the temperature in the Valley increased. In Srinagar, the temperature was recorded at 0.1 degrees Celsius, while Pahalgam recorded minus 2.9 degrees Celsius. The Ski resort Gulmarg recorded minus 7.6 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;

While the National Highway connecting Srinagar to the rest of India remains shut, other roads leading to many districts of North and Central Kashmir have been cut off due to the snowfall as well. Sonamarg-Leh, Mughal Road and Gurez road have already been closed due to the intense accumulation of snowfall in those areas.&nbsp;

The Met Department has predicted moderate to heavy snowfall across the Kashmir region starting January 23.&nbsp;

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Kashmir Valley received a fresh spell of snowfall early this morning today. The snowfall led to the closure of the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway. Jammu and Kashmir Police's traffic department said that the National Highway has been closed due to shooting stones and snowfall between Ramban and Banihal areas.

Kashmir Valley received a fresh spell of snowfall early this morning today. The snowfall led to the closure of the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway. Jammu and Kashmir Police's traffic department said that the National Highway has been closed due to shooting stones and snowfall between Ramban and Banihal areas. Many flights were delayed at the Srinagar airport, but the air traffic resumed later. The Met Department has predicted Snow and rains across the Kashmir region in the next few days. Due to the Snowfall, the temperature in the Valley increased. In Srinagar, the temperature was recorded at 0.1 degrees Celsius, while Pahalgam recorded minus 2.9 degrees Celsius. The Ski resort Gulmarg recorded minus 7.6 degrees Celsius. While the National Highway connecting Srinagar to the rest of India remains shut, other roads leading to many districts of North and Central Kashmir have been cut off due to the snowfall as well. Sonamarg-Leh, Mughal Road and Gurez road have already been closed due to the intense accumulation of snowfall in those areas. The Met Department has predicted moderate to heavy snowfall across the Kashmir region starting January 23. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Kashmir receives fresh snowfall, Srinagar-Jammu National Highway closed

Security has been beefed up across the Kashmir valley ahead of Republic Day on January 26. Border Security Forces (BSF) Inspector General, Ashok Yadav while interacting with the media said that not only has security been increased in the city but also&nbsp;along the Line of Control (LoC). Vigilance in all the districts of Kashmir valley has been increased and&nbsp; security&nbsp;personnel have been deployed on the ground to keep a check. More barricades have also been put up in several places across the valley.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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“There are two sides to it. One is the Line of Control, whenever there is a national day celebration in India, we beef up the security grid on the LoC. We have also increased patrolling on the borders. A lot of our companies are involved in law and order also and we are very much alert, and we will make sure it goes smoothly,"&nbsp;said Inspector General of BSF, Ashok Yadav.&nbsp;

The Border Security Force had organised a band show under the aegis of the “Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav” programme. The Brass and Jazz Band of the BSF, Kashmir Frontier displayed a symphony of martial music at Nishat Bagh on the banks of the iconic Dal Lake to spread a message of unity and solidarity among the people of Kashmir valley and to showcase the glorious history of BSF.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/two-terrorists-belonging-to-let-killed-in-budgam-encounter-553422">Jammu and Kashmir: Two terrorists belonging to LeT killed in Budgam encounter</a>

The visitors, tourists, locals and children witnessed and experienced the rich music and skilful play of the BSF Band and enjoyed it. The audience also liked the BSF song “Hum Seema Ke Prahari Hain” played by the Brass and Jazz Band in a wonderful tuning with heart-touching lyrics. IG of BSF Ashok Yadav said that the BSF displayed its band by playing patriotic songs, “There are many people here like locals and tourists. We want to recognise the contribution of every citizen.”

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Security has been beefed up across the Kashmir valley ahead of Republic Day on January 26. Border Security Forces (BSF) Inspector General, Ashok Yadav while interacting with the media said that not only has security been increased in the city but also along the Line of Control (LoC).

Security has been beefed up across the Kashmir valley ahead of Republic Day on January 26. Border Security Forces (BSF) Inspector General, Ashok Yadav while interacting with the media said that not only has security been increased in the city but also along the Line of Control (LoC). Vigilance in all the districts of Kashmir valley has been increased and security personnel have been deployed on the ground to keep a check. More barricades have also been put up in several places across the valley. ALSO READ | Makki's UN blacklisting to help India's efforts to dismantle terror infrastructure: MEA “There are two sides to it. One is the Line of Control, whenever there is a national day celebration in India, we beef up the security grid on the LoC. We have also increased patrolling on the borders. A lot of our companies are involved in law and order also and we are very much alert, and we will make sure it goes smoothly," said Inspector General of BSF, Ashok Yadav. The Border Security Force had organised a band show under the aegis of the “Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav” programme. The Brass and Jazz Band of the BSF, Kashmir Frontier displayed a symphony of martial music at Nishat Bagh on the banks of the iconic Dal Lake to spread a message of unity and solidarity among the people of Kashmir valley and to showcase the glorious history of BSF. ALSO READ | Jammu and Kashmir: Two terrorists belonging to LeT killed in Budgam encounter The visitors, tourists, locals and children witnessed and experienced the rich music and skilful play of the BSF Band and enjoyed it. The audience also liked the BSF song “Hum Seema Ke Prahari Hain” played by the Brass and Jazz Band in a wonderful tuning with heart-touching lyrics. IG of BSF Ashok Yadav said that the BSF displayed its band by playing patriotic songs, “There are many people here like locals and tourists. We want to recognise the contribution of every citizen.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: Security beefed up across Kashmir ahead of Republic Day; LoC on high alert

The People’s Democratic Party held a protest on Wednesday (January 18) against the LG administration of Jammu and Kashmir. The protest was held in PDP’s Srinagar office at the Sher Kashmir Park. Party members were demanding the rollback of government order regarding the retrieval of state land held by people in the Union territory.&nbsp;

The Youth General Secretary of PDP Mohit Bhan was leading the protests and demanding the government to roll back the order. “The government’s directive is against the poor people who will be rendered homeless if this order is implemented on the ground. It’s totally inhuman,’’ said Bhan.&nbsp;

Most of the regional political parties like PDP, National Conference and People’s Conference&nbsp; in the Union Territory are against the government order&nbsp;and have expressed their disappointment over it. &nbsp;

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“This whole idea of retrieving state land in rural settings is dangerous. When will these insane experiments backed by ugly muscularity end? Occupation of state land in villages by inhabitants is a generational practice and an irreversible reality. This practice is prevalent in the rest of the country. A sizable percentage of the population is involved. You can’t make them homeless,’’ said Sajad Lone, People’s Conference.

“The National Conference is very clear that encroachments are not acceptable, but state land belongs to the people. If the government has passed an order, do they have any alternative for these people. SC judgement is two cases recently called for an alternative for the people until such steps are taken. It is totally wrong and harassment of locals. Sometimes I wonder if the BJP is really going to fight elections in Jammu Kashmir, they have such anti-people approach here. And let’s be very clear that this order is going to affect the poor people of the Union territory. The rich might find ways to fight the order, it’s the poor who will suffer the most,’’ said Ifra Jan, spokesperson, National Conference.&nbsp;

However, the BJP has welcomed the order of retrieving the government land. They have called it a step which is pro-poor people of the Union Territory.&nbsp;

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‘’Retrieving of land must start from the Nawa e Subh complex, Khidmat Trust, 32 former ministers, and other land sharks. There should be no mercy for looting state land, the government must ensure stern punishment to land grabbers. It is good that UT administration has asked all the Deputy Commissioners to remove all encroachments from state and community (Kahcharai) lands. It is surprising that most of the land grabbers are those who ruled the state. May it be the National Conference (NC), Congress and People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Even senior leaders of these political parties including Chaudhary Zulfikar and Sajad Ahmad Kitchloo are named in the list, ‘’ said Altaf Thakur, senior BJP leader and party’s J&amp;K spokesman.&nbsp;

The People’s Democratic Party held a protest on Wednesday (January 18) against the LG administration of Jammu and Kashmir. The protest was held in PDP’s Srinagar office at the Sher Kashmir Park.

The People’s Democratic Party held a protest on Wednesday (January 18) against the LG administration of Jammu and Kashmir. The protest was held in PDP’s Srinagar office at the Sher Kashmir Park. Party members were demanding the rollback of government order regarding the retrieval of state land held by people in the Union territory. The Youth General Secretary of PDP Mohit Bhan was leading the protests and demanding the government to roll back the order. “The government’s directive is against the poor people who will be rendered homeless if this order is implemented on the ground. It’s totally inhuman,’’ said Bhan. Most of the regional political parties like PDP, National Conference and People’s Conference in the Union Territory are against the government order and have expressed their disappointment over it. Also read |India’s Supreme Court seeks Centre’s view on criminalising marital rape “This whole idea of retrieving state land in rural settings is dangerous. When will these insane experiments backed by ugly muscularity end? Occupation of state land in villages by inhabitants is a generational practice and an irreversible reality. This practice is prevalent in the rest of the country. A sizable percentage of the population is involved. You can’t make them homeless,’’ said Sajad Lone, People’s Conference. “The National Conference is very clear that encroachments are not acceptable, but state land belongs to the people. If the government has passed an order, do they have any alternative for these people. SC judgement is two cases recently called for an alternative for the people until such steps are taken. It is totally wrong and harassment of locals. Sometimes I wonder if the BJP is really going to fight elections in Jammu Kashmir, they have such anti-people approach here. And let’s be very clear that this order is going to affect the poor people of the Union territory. The rich might find ways to fight the order, it’s the poor who will suffer the most,’’ said Ifra Jan, spokesperson, National Conference. However, the BJP has welcomed the order of retrieving the government land. They have called it a step which is pro-poor people of the Union Territory. Also read | Indians view US as second significant security threat ahead of Pakistan, shows survey ‘’Retrieving of land must start from the Nawa e Subh complex, Khidmat Trust, 32 former ministers, and other land sharks. There should be no mercy for looting state land, the government must ensure stern punishment to land grabbers. It is good that UT administration has asked all the Deputy Commissioners to remove all encroachments from state and community (Kahcharai) lands. It is surprising that most of the land grabbers are those who ruled the state. May it be the National Conference (NC), Congress and People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Even senior leaders of these political parties including Chaudhary Zulfikar and Sajad Ahmad Kitchloo are named in the list, ‘’ said Altaf Thakur, senior BJP leader and party’s J&K spokesman.

Regional parties in India's J&K protest against govt's state land retrieval order, BJP supports it

Two terrorists belonging to the Lashka-e-Taiba (LeT)&nbsp;terror outfit were killed in a brief encounter in central Kashmir's Budgam district. Security forces had a tip-off about the terrorists moving in a vehicle in the Budgam district after which a barricade was put in place. Forces tried to stop the vehicle, but terrorists started firing leading to an encounter.&nbsp;

Both the terrorists have been identified as Arbaaz Mir and Shahid Sheikh of Pulwama district and were associated with the proscribed terror outfit LeT. Jammu and Kashmir Police had earlier said that both the terrorists earlier escaped from a recent encounter in the same district.

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''Both the killed terrorists are identified as Arbaaz Mir and Shahid Sheikh of Pulwama linked with the proscribed terror outfit LeT. Both the terrorists earlier escaped from the recent encounter,'' said Vijay Kumar, ADGP Kashmir.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;UN designates Pakistan's Abdul Rehman Makki as a global terrorist

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Jammu and Kashmir Police have said that on specific input, the joint area domination party of Army &amp; Police tried to stop one suspected vehicle after which terrorists fired upon and in retaliation two terrorists were killed in a brief shootout.&nbsp;

Both the dead bodies of the killed terrorists were recovered from the encounter site. Arms and Ammunition were recovered from the operation site as well.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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Two terrorists belonging to the Lashka-e-Taiba (LeT) terror outfit were killed in a brief encounter in central Kashmir's Budgam district. Security forces had a tip-off about the terrorists moving in a vehicle in the Budgam district after which a barricade was put in place.

Two terrorists belonging to the Lashka-e-Taiba (LeT) terror outfit were killed in a brief encounter in central Kashmir's Budgam district. Security forces had a tip-off about the terrorists moving in a vehicle in the Budgam district after which a barricade was put in place. Forces tried to stop the vehicle, but terrorists started firing leading to an encounter. Both the terrorists have been identified as Arbaaz Mir and Shahid Sheikh of Pulwama district and were associated with the proscribed terror outfit LeT. Jammu and Kashmir Police had earlier said that both the terrorists earlier escaped from a recent encounter in the same district. Also Read | Taliban make use of Elon Musk's Twitter paid verification ''Both the killed terrorists are identified as Arbaaz Mir and Shahid Sheikh of Pulwama linked with the proscribed terror outfit LeT. Both the terrorists earlier escaped from the recent encounter,'' said Vijay Kumar, ADGP Kashmir. Watch | UN designates Pakistan's Abdul Rehman Makki as a global terrorist Jammu and Kashmir Police have said that on specific input, the joint area domination party of Army & Police tried to stop one suspected vehicle after which terrorists fired upon and in retaliation two terrorists were killed in a brief shootout. Both the dead bodies of the killed terrorists were recovered from the encounter site. Arms and Ammunition were recovered from the operation site as well. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Jammu and Kashmir: Two terrorists belonging to LeT killed in Budgam encounter

The intense snowfall across the Kashmir region not only brought cheer among the people but also misery and disruption to normal life. Kashmir witnessed seven avalanches in one week and thousands of people have been relocated and rescued from the avalanche-prone areas while five people lost their lives.

Kashmir region witnessed this season’s heaviest snowfall, especially over the higher reaches. Central Kashmir's Ganderbal and North Kashmir's Kupwara received around six feet of snow leading to extreme difficulties for the locals living in the area. Sonamarg area in the Ganderbal district witnessed four Avalanches in a week resulting in the deaths of two labourers working for the Zojila tunnel. Over 1100 people have been relocated from the Sonamarg tunnel site while 172 were rescued by the Indian army and local administration after an avalanche hit the project camp for Zojila Tunnel.&nbsp;

“There were around 1100 people located there in those areas. Normally we stop all external work during December. No external work was going on, only tunnel work was going on, we were having 1100 people out of those 300 people were directly involved in tunnel work out of which 800 were just located there, they were not doing any work. After the occurrence of these avalanches, 800 have been sent to their respective home, 300 people were still there who were involved in tunnel work, after the occurrence of second avalanche which took place on Saturday, we sent home 172 people,” said V K Pandey, General Manager NHIDCL.&nbsp;

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The work on the Zojila tunnel has been stopped for two weeks and a decision would be taken after a team of experts who predict the avalanches gives a report of resuming the work. Although the accumulation of snow is around five to six feet which makes it look unlikely that work would be started soon.&nbsp;

“Last year we were working throughout the winter because last year there was no occurrence of avalanches. But this year we have witnessed 4 avalanches, this was more severe. So, we have got the direction from the administration to suspend the work for the time being, till the situation improves. At least work is suspended for next two weeks, we are planning to call the experts who can predict the snow avalanches during the end of January. We will take their advice and then we will resume the work. we have all the precautions to start the work,” said Pandey.&nbsp;

The snow has created havoc for the local population as well. The roads are completely cut off from the rest of the districts, especially in Ganderbal's Sonamarg and North Kashmir's Kupwara, where the accumulation of snow has been around six feet. The majority of people living in these higher reaches have shifted to safer locations and people in the hilly areas have been advised to remain vigilant and not venture out during the nighttime.&nbsp;

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These villages in the Ganderbal district are facing a shortage of electricity, water supply and road connectivity. The people are asking the government to open the roads so that the needy and sick people in these villages can be taken to hospitals without any hassle. &nbsp;

“We have a lot of problems in the area, the roads are completely cut off due to snow, issues of electricity and water supply, and there is no ambulance service nor the hospital. The roads have not been cleared as we have more than two feet of snow. We have to shift our sick people more than 20 km to reach a hospital or doctor. Sonamarg villages have been relocated. Due to the danger of avalanches, all those people have been taken out of those places. Electricity is also an issue with hefty electricity bills,” said Irfan Ahmad, a local resident of Gagangir Sonamarg.&nbsp;

The locals from these areas have demanded the government to open all the roads cut off due to heavy snowfall in higher reaches. The power cuts in these areas are longer than eight hours a day and some people said that they can’t even charge their phones.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/two-terrorists-belonging-to-let-killed-in-budgam-encounter-553422">Two terrorists belonging to LeT killed in Budgam encounter</a>

“We have a lot of problems due to the fresh snowfall. The roads are not cleared, there is no electricity, and there should be a hospital close by where we can take our sick people. The main concern is road connectivity, Our hospital is 10 km away and we can't move on the roads as they are covered with snow. Government has issued a warning to not venture out in the area, but we only come when we desperately need to, like taking sick people to hospital. If the roads were cleared it would be easy. We also lose our employment due to heavy snowfall. We hardly get electricity to even charge our mobile phones. There is no fire service either. They are over 25 km away,” said Ishfaq Ahmad, a local resident of Gagangir Sonamarg.&nbsp;

The government of Jammu and Kashmir has issued an avalanche warning across the ten districts of the Union Territory. People living in higher reaches have been advised to stay alert. The MeT has predicted another wet spell from January 18 to 25. However, there would be moderate to heavy snowfall from January 24 to January 25. Additionally, keeping in view the snow accumulation and prediction, Jammu and Kashmir along Ladakh have been put on high alert. Hence, the rescue teams have been kept on stand-by to meet any untoward incidents in these areas.&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

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The intense snowfall across the Kashmir region not only brought cheer among the people but also misery and disruption to normal life. Kashmir witnessed seven avalanches in one week and thousands of people have been relocated and rescued from the avalanche-prone areas while five people lost their lives.

The intense snowfall across the Kashmir region not only brought cheer among the people but also misery and disruption to normal life. Kashmir witnessed seven avalanches in one week and thousands of people have been relocated and rescued from the avalanche-prone areas while five people lost their lives. Kashmir region witnessed this season’s heaviest snowfall, especially over the higher reaches. Central Kashmir's Ganderbal and North Kashmir's Kupwara received around six feet of snow leading to extreme difficulties for the locals living in the area. Sonamarg area in the Ganderbal district witnessed four Avalanches in a week resulting in the deaths of two labourers working for the Zojila tunnel. Over 1100 people have been relocated from the Sonamarg tunnel site while 172 were rescued by the Indian army and local administration after an avalanche hit the project camp for Zojila Tunnel. “There were around 1100 people located there in those areas. Normally we stop all external work during December. No external work was going on, only tunnel work was going on, we were having 1100 people out of those 300 people were directly involved in tunnel work out of which 800 were just located there, they were not doing any work. After the occurrence of these avalanches, 800 have been sent to their respective home, 300 people were still there who were involved in tunnel work, after the occurrence of second avalanche which took place on Saturday, we sent home 172 people,” said V K Pandey, General Manager NHIDCL. ALSO WATCH | Gulmarg, Pahalgam receives fresh snowfall, Kashmir packed with tourists The work on the Zojila tunnel has been stopped for two weeks and a decision would be taken after a team of experts who predict the avalanches gives a report of resuming the work. Although the accumulation of snow is around five to six feet which makes it look unlikely that work would be started soon. “Last year we were working throughout the winter because last year there was no occurrence of avalanches. But this year we have witnessed 4 avalanches, this was more severe. So, we have got the direction from the administration to suspend the work for the time being, till the situation improves. At least work is suspended for next two weeks, we are planning to call the experts who can predict the snow avalanches during the end of January. We will take their advice and then we will resume the work. we have all the precautions to start the work,” said Pandey. The snow has created havoc for the local population as well. The roads are completely cut off from the rest of the districts, especially in Ganderbal's Sonamarg and North Kashmir's Kupwara, where the accumulation of snow has been around six feet. The majority of people living in these higher reaches have shifted to safer locations and people in the hilly areas have been advised to remain vigilant and not venture out during the nighttime. ALSO READ | Fresh snowfall in Kashmir disrupts traffic on national highway, affects flights' schedule These villages in the Ganderbal district are facing a shortage of electricity, water supply and road connectivity. The people are asking the government to open the roads so that the needy and sick people in these villages can be taken to hospitals without any hassle. “We have a lot of problems in the area, the roads are completely cut off due to snow, issues of electricity and water supply, and there is no ambulance service nor the hospital. The roads have not been cleared as we have more than two feet of snow. We have to shift our sick people more than 20 km to reach a hospital or doctor. Sonamarg villages have been relocated. Due to the danger of avalanches, all those people have been taken out of those places. Electricity is also an issue with hefty electricity bills,” said Irfan Ahmad, a local resident of Gagangir Sonamarg. The locals from these areas have demanded the government to open all the roads cut off due to heavy snowfall in higher reaches. The power cuts in these areas are longer than eight hours a day and some people said that they can’t even charge their phones. ALSO READ | Two terrorists belonging to LeT killed in Budgam encounter “We have a lot of problems due to the fresh snowfall. The roads are not cleared, there is no electricity, and there should be a hospital close by where we can take our sick people. The main concern is road connectivity, Our hospital is 10 km away and we can't move on the roads as they are covered with snow. Government has issued a warning to not venture out in the area, but we only come when we desperately need to, like taking sick people to hospital. If the roads were cleared it would be easy. We also lose our employment due to heavy snowfall. We hardly get electricity to even charge our mobile phones. There is no fire service either. They are over 25 km away,” said Ishfaq Ahmad, a local resident of Gagangir Sonamarg. The government of Jammu and Kashmir has issued an avalanche warning across the ten districts of the Union Territory. People living in higher reaches have been advised to stay alert. The MeT has predicted another wet spell from January 18 to 25. However, there would be moderate to heavy snowfall from January 24 to January 25. Additionally, keeping in view the snow accumulation and prediction, Jammu and Kashmir along Ladakh have been put on high alert. Hence, the rescue teams have been kept on stand-by to meet any untoward incidents in these areas. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Over 1100 people rescued, relocated from avalanche prone areas in Kashmir. MeT predicts more snow after Jan 18

Fresh snowfall disrupted normal life across the region of Kashmir as the majority of flights got cancelled from the Srinagar airport and national highways were blocked.&nbsp;The Srinagar Jammu National highway, which connects the valley to the rest of India, was closed in the wake of continuous snowing in areas like Qazigund and Banihal. The snowfall in Srinagar also affected air traffic, leading to the cancellation of the majority of flights at Srinagar airport.

“The weather conditions would improve in the next few hours in the plains. And we are expecting the weather to be dry from January 14 till January 18. It will be followed by a fresh western disturbance affecting the weather in the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. There is a possibility of light to moderate snowfall at most places of Kashmir on January 23 as another western disturbance is affecting J&amp;K on the particular date,”&nbsp;Deputy Director Meteorological Department Mukhtar Ahmad said.

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According to the Meteorological (MeT) department, most of the areas across the Kashmir region witnessed snowfall and accumulation of snow was reported in various areas.

A Met official gave the figures for the scale and concurrent status of snowfall across Kashmir as follows:

<ul>
	<li>Srinagar: 2cm.. Snowing</li>
	<li>Pahalgam: 28cm..Overcast</li>
	<li>Kokernag: 23cm.. Snowing</li>
	<li>Qazigund: 10cm.. Snowing</li>
	<li>Kupwara: &nbsp;5cm.. Snowfall just started</li>
	<li>Bhadarwah: 2cm.. Light Rain</li>
	<li>Batote: 2.7cm.. Snowing</li>
	<li>Jammu: 5.6 mm.. Cloudy</li>
	<li>Katra: &nbsp;19mm.. Overcast</li>
</ul>

The MeT has predicted that the same weather is likely to continue till evening. Officials said that there is no heavy snowfall prediction for plain areas of the valley including Srinagar.

WATCH|&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: The genesis of Kashmir issue

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The Jammu and Kashmir government has issued an avalanche warning for all the higher reaches in North and Central Kashmir. The people living in these areas have been asked not to venture into the hilly areas.

Pertinently five people, including three army personnel and two labourers, lost their lives during the last two days in Kashmir valley due to snow and avalanches.

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Fresh snowfall disrupted normal life across the region of Kashmir as the majority of flights got cancelled from the Srinagar airport and national highways were blocked.

Fresh snowfall disrupted normal life across the region of Kashmir as the majority of flights got cancelled from the Srinagar airport and national highways were blocked. The Srinagar Jammu National highway, which connects the valley to the rest of India, was closed in the wake of continuous snowing in areas like Qazigund and Banihal. The snowfall in Srinagar also affected air traffic, leading to the cancellation of the majority of flights at Srinagar airport. “The weather conditions would improve in the next few hours in the plains. And we are expecting the weather to be dry from January 14 till January 18. It will be followed by a fresh western disturbance affecting the weather in the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. There is a possibility of light to moderate snowfall at most places of Kashmir on January 23 as another western disturbance is affecting J&K on the particular date,” Deputy Director Meteorological Department Mukhtar Ahmad said. ALSO READ| Tourists cheer Kashmir's latest snowfall as 'dream sequence from a movie' According to the Meteorological (MeT) department, most of the areas across the Kashmir region witnessed snowfall and accumulation of snow was reported in various areas. A Met official gave the figures for the scale and concurrent status of snowfall across Kashmir as follows: Srinagar: 2cm.. Snowing Pahalgam: 28cm..Overcast Kokernag: 23cm.. Snowing Qazigund: 10cm.. Snowing Kupwara: 5cm.. Snowfall just started Bhadarwah: 2cm.. Light Rain Batote: 2.7cm.. Snowing Jammu: 5.6 mm.. Cloudy Katra: 19mm.. Overcast The MeT has predicted that the same weather is likely to continue till evening. Officials said that there is no heavy snowfall prediction for plain areas of the valley including Srinagar. WATCH| Gravitas Plus: The genesis of Kashmir issue The Jammu and Kashmir government has issued an avalanche warning for all the higher reaches in North and Central Kashmir. The people living in these areas have been asked not to venture into the hilly areas. Pertinently five people, including three army personnel and two labourers, lost their lives during the last two days in Kashmir valley due to snow and avalanches.

Fresh snowfall in Kashmir disrupts traffic on national highway, affects flights' schedule

Kashmir Valley witnessed fresh spell of snowfall across various districts. Resorts hosting tourists at places such as&nbsp;Gulmarg and Pahalgam also received fresh spells of snowfall, attracting thousands of tourists to Kashmir's picturesque&nbsp;hill stations. All the hotels and guest houses are completely booked for the next few weeks. Tourism&nbsp;stakeholders say the more the snow, the better the tourism would be.&nbsp;

Tourists were enjoying the snowfall in Gulmarg region where more than one foot of snow accumulated since yesterday.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/kashmir-receives-seasons-first-major-snowfall-in-pictures-531911">Kashmir receives seasons first major snowfall - In pictures</a>

"It is the paradise on earth, we had only come to see snowfall and our dream has come true. The falling snow looks like a dream sequence from a movie. We are definitely lucky to witness these beautiful visuals," said Nitesh Kumar, a tourist.&nbsp;

The weather&nbsp;department has predicted weather to remain same for the next two days. Snowfall and rains are expected again in the higher reaches of the Kashmir Valley.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/jammu-kashmir-with-fresh-snowfall-tourist-destinations-like-gulmarg-pahalgam-look-spectacular-440177">Jammu &amp; Kashmir: With fresh snowfall tourist destinations like Gulmarg, Pahalgam look spectacular</a>

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"I have directly come to the paradise. This is my first time to see&nbsp;snowfall and I am yet to believe if it's true. Gulmarg is better than Switzerland and I would ask everyone to come to Kashmir in this season. It looks extremely dreamy and beautiful, " said Ashwini Kadam, another tourist visiting Kashmir.&nbsp;

While the tourists enjoy the snowfall, it isn't that much of a good news to&nbsp;the local people of the valley.

At present, all the surface roads remain cut off due to the snowfall in the north and central Kashmir.

The Srinagar-Leh, Srinagar Mughal road, Srinagar-Keran, Bandipora-Gurez roads have been closed due to snowfall in the region.&nbsp;

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Kashmir Valley witnessed fresh spell of snowfall across various districts. Resorts hosting tourists at places such as Gulmarg and Pahalgam also received fresh spells of snowfall, attracting thousands of tourists to Kashmir's picturesque hill stations.

Kashmir Valley witnessed fresh spell of snowfall across various districts. Resorts hosting tourists at places such as Gulmarg and Pahalgam also received fresh spells of snowfall, attracting thousands of tourists to Kashmir's picturesque hill stations. All the hotels and guest houses are completely booked for the next few weeks. Tourism stakeholders say the more the snow, the better the tourism would be. Tourists were enjoying the snowfall in Gulmarg region where more than one foot of snow accumulated since yesterday. ALSO READ | Kashmir receives seasons first major snowfall - In pictures "It is the paradise on earth, we had only come to see snowfall and our dream has come true. The falling snow looks like a dream sequence from a movie. We are definitely lucky to witness these beautiful visuals," said Nitesh Kumar, a tourist. The weather department has predicted weather to remain same for the next two days. Snowfall and rains are expected again in the higher reaches of the Kashmir Valley. ALSO WATCH | Jammu & Kashmir: With fresh snowfall tourist destinations like Gulmarg, Pahalgam look spectacular × "I have directly come to the paradise. This is my first time to see snowfall and I am yet to believe if it's true. Gulmarg is better than Switzerland and I would ask everyone to come to Kashmir in this season. It looks extremely dreamy and beautiful, " said Ashwini Kadam, another tourist visiting Kashmir. While the tourists enjoy the snowfall, it isn't that much of a good news to the local people of the valley. At present, all the surface roads remain cut off due to the snowfall in the north and central Kashmir. The Srinagar-Leh, Srinagar Mughal road, Srinagar-Keran, Bandipora-Gurez roads have been closed due to snowfall in the region. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tourists cheer Kashmir's latest snowfall as 'dream sequence from a movie'

One person died and another one is missing after an avalanche hit Baltal area in Sonamarg of Central Kashmir’s district Ganderbal district. The dead body of a labourer was recovered after a rescue operation by the Indian army and local administration.&nbsp;The avalanche hit the area early morning on Thursday after which a rescue operation was launched, the operation still continues as one person is still missing in the area. 
 
The body of the labourer working with the Zojila tunnel project was recovered under snow in the Sarbal area of Sonamarg hours after the avalanche hit the area.&nbsp;

"We were earlier told that there was no one in the area when the avalanche hit, but at around 2pm (local time), we were told that two missing people are missing in the area. We started the rescue operation and recovered a body of a labourer identified as Sandeep Kumar. There is one more person missing identified as Pal Krishan. The rescue operation is on by Indian Army and administration. All other labourers are safe," said ADC Ganderbal, Jammu Kashmir government.&nbsp;

The Jammu and Kashmir government has kept medical teams on standby in the area as the search for another person still continues. Notably, two avalanches were reported in the Hangh and Sarbal areas of Ganderbal district.&nbsp;

Earlier, three army soldiers including a JCO were killed when they slipped on the snow track near LOC in Machil sector of North Kashmir’s Kupwara district.&nbsp;

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One person died and another one is missing after an avalanche hit Baltal area in Sonamarg of Central Kashmir’s district Ganderbal district. The dead body of a labourer was recovered after a rescue operation by the Indian army and local administration.

One person died and another one is missing after an avalanche hit Baltal area in Sonamarg of Central Kashmir’s district Ganderbal district. The dead body of a labourer was recovered after a rescue operation by the Indian army and local administration. The avalanche hit the area early morning on Thursday after which a rescue operation was launched, the operation still continues as one person is still missing in the area. The body of the labourer working with the Zojila tunnel project was recovered under snow in the Sarbal area of Sonamarg hours after the avalanche hit the area. "We were earlier told that there was no one in the area when the avalanche hit, but at around 2pm (local time), we were told that two missing people are missing in the area. We started the rescue operation and recovered a body of a labourer identified as Sandeep Kumar. There is one more person missing identified as Pal Krishan. The rescue operation is on by Indian Army and administration. All other labourers are safe," said ADC Ganderbal, Jammu Kashmir government. The Jammu and Kashmir government has kept medical teams on standby in the area as the search for another person still continues. Notably, two avalanches were reported in the Hangh and Sarbal areas of Ganderbal district. Earlier, three army soldiers including a JCO were killed when they slipped on the snow track near LOC in Machil sector of North Kashmir’s Kupwara district. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

At least one dead in avalanche at Ganderbal in Kashmir, rescue operations underway

Three soldiers of the Indian Army were killed in North Kashmir's Kupwara district's&nbsp;Machil sector after slipping into a deep gorge. The soldiers were a part of a regular operational task in the Machhal Sector and due to inclement weather and tough terrain, the soldiers slipped into a deep gorge and made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.

A routine operational task was undertaken on 10 Jan 2023 at about 5:30 PM in the Sector, along a narrow winter track. While moving towards the forward post, snow along the narrow track broke, leading to the slipping of one JCO and two Jawans into a deep gorge. A search and rescue operation was immediately launched with troops from the nearest post. In spite of adverse weather conditions and rough terrain sustained efforts of the search party led to the recovery of the mortal remains of the three brave soldiers.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-jk-govt-promises-free-education-to-children-of-martyred-police-officers-551127">Also read |&nbsp;India: J&amp;K gov't promises free education to children of martyred police officers</a>

The three soldiers were identified as&nbsp;Nb Sub Parshotam Kumar, Hav Amrik Singh&nbsp;and&nbsp;Amit Sharma.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kashmir-village-gets-electricity-for-the-first-time-after-indias-independence-550715">Also read |&nbsp;Kashmir village gets electricity for the first time after India’s Independence</a>

''Late Nb Sub Parshotam Kumar was forty-three years old and had joined the Army in 1996. He belonged to Village Majua Uttami, Post Raika, Tehsil, Bishnah, District Jammu in J&amp;K. The braveheart is survived by his wife and two children, said&nbsp;PRO (Defence), Srinagar. Late Hav Amrik Singh was thirty-nine years old and joined the Army in 2001. He belonged to Village Mandwara, Post Marwari, Tehsil Ghanari, and District Una in Himachal Pradesh. The braveheart is survived by his wife and one son. Late Amit Sharma was twenty-three years old and joined the Army in 2019. He belonged to Village Talasi Khurd, Post Kirwin, Tehsil Hamirpur, and District Hamirpur in Himachal Pradesh. The Braveheart is survived by his mother, '' he added.&nbsp;

The mortal remains of the three soldiers will be taken for last rites to their respective native places, where they would be laid to rest with full military honours.&nbsp;

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Three soldiers of the Indian Army were killed in North Kashmir's Kupwara district's Machil sector after slipping into a deep gorge. The soldiers were a part of a regular operational task in the Machhal Sector and due to inclement weather and tough terrain, the soldiers slipped into a deep gorge and made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.

Three soldiers of the Indian Army were killed in North Kashmir's Kupwara district's Machil sector after slipping into a deep gorge. The soldiers were a part of a regular operational task in the Machhal Sector and due to inclement weather and tough terrain, the soldiers slipped into a deep gorge and made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. A routine operational task was undertaken on 10 Jan 2023 at about 5:30 PM in the Sector, along a narrow winter track. While moving towards the forward post, snow along the narrow track broke, leading to the slipping of one JCO and two Jawans into a deep gorge. A search and rescue operation was immediately launched with troops from the nearest post. In spite of adverse weather conditions and rough terrain sustained efforts of the search party led to the recovery of the mortal remains of the three brave soldiers. Also read | India: J&K gov't promises free education to children of martyred police officers The three soldiers were identified as Nb Sub Parshotam Kumar, Hav Amrik Singh and Amit Sharma. Also read | Kashmir village gets electricity for the first time after India’s Independence ''Late Nb Sub Parshotam Kumar was forty-three years old and had joined the Army in 1996. He belonged to Village Majua Uttami, Post Raika, Tehsil, Bishnah, District Jammu in J&K. The braveheart is survived by his wife and two children, said PRO (Defence), Srinagar. Late Hav Amrik Singh was thirty-nine years old and joined the Army in 2001. He belonged to Village Mandwara, Post Marwari, Tehsil Ghanari, and District Una in Himachal Pradesh. The braveheart is survived by his wife and one son. Late Amit Sharma was twenty-three years old and joined the Army in 2019. He belonged to Village Talasi Khurd, Post Kirwin, Tehsil Hamirpur, and District Hamirpur in Himachal Pradesh. The Braveheart is survived by his mother, '' he added. The mortal remains of the three soldiers will be taken for last rites to their respective native places, where they would be laid to rest with full military honours. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: Three Indian Army soldiers killed in North Kashmir’s Kupwara district

The Jammu and Kashmir government has decided to bear the educational expenses of the children of&nbsp;police personnel killed in militancy-related incidents in the Union territory. The educational expense includes monthly school fees, transport charges as well as the annual uniform expense. However, It will only be applicable to the first two children of those police personnel who laid their lives in militancy-related incidents and encounters.

''The Government shall reimburse the expenditure towards monthly fee, transportation charges (up to a maximum ceiling of Rs 3,000 per child per month), one-time annual uniform charges (up to a maximum ceiling of Rs 10,000 per child per year) and one-time expenditure on books (only textbooks prescribed by the respective Boards) if any, up to class 12* in any School (both government and private), within the territorial jurisdiction of the Union territory of J&amp;K.'' said the government order.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-bengaluru-metro-pillar-comes-crashing-killing-mother-toddler-son-bmrcl-orders-enquiry-551105">India: Bengaluru Metro pillar comes crashing killing mother, toddler son; BMRCL orders inquiry</a>

The Jammu and Kashmir Government has said that the schools would require to be duly recognised by the government and affiliated with the J&amp;K Board of School Education/Central Board of School Education or any other registered board in India. For those&nbsp;who are enrolled in private schools, the government said that the private Schools shall treat these students as part of admission under EWS and reimbursements will be made accordingly.

The guardians of these children will have to register with the concerned district SP. The payments shall be made to the legal guardian (whoever incurs such expenditure on the wards) by the concerned District Superintendent of Police on the production of valid proof of guardianship by the legal guardian.

In case there is any dispute about the children of a particular martyr having varying guardians e.g., one child living with their mother and the other with his family, the reimbursement shall be made to both the guardians on an actual basis, however, on the production of separate guardianship certificate to be issued by the concerned school authority.

''The reimbursement on account of the monthly fee, and transport charges, shall be made on a quarterly basis by the concerned District Superintendent of Police, (on the production of relevant vouchers), where the family of the martyr ordinarily resides. While the reimbursement on account of the expenditure incurred on uniforms and books shall be reimbursed in the month of April every year subject to the ceiling and condition mentioned in paragraph&nbsp;1,'' said the order.

Also watch |&nbsp;Ex-Tata Cliq CEO Vikas Purohit takes charge as Meta's new global head in India

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The government order also said that this arrangement shall be deemed to come into force fully for the year 2022-2023, besides the pending claim of Rs 15.22 lakh for the year 2019-20, 2020-21, and 2021-22 shall be reimbursed, subject to the mentioned stipulations.

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The Jammu and Kashmir government has decided to bear the educational expenses of the children of police personnel killed in militancy-related incidents in the Union territory.

The Jammu and Kashmir government has decided to bear the educational expenses of the children of police personnel killed in militancy-related incidents in the Union territory. The educational expense includes monthly school fees, transport charges as well as the annual uniform expense. However, It will only be applicable to the first two children of those police personnel who laid their lives in militancy-related incidents and encounters. ''The Government shall reimburse the expenditure towards monthly fee, transportation charges (up to a maximum ceiling of Rs 3,000 per child per month), one-time annual uniform charges (up to a maximum ceiling of Rs 10,000 per child per year) and one-time expenditure on books (only textbooks prescribed by the respective Boards) if any, up to class 12* in any School (both government and private), within the territorial jurisdiction of the Union territory of J&K.'' said the government order. Also read | India: Bengaluru Metro pillar comes crashing killing mother, toddler son; BMRCL orders inquiry The Jammu and Kashmir Government has said that the schools would require to be duly recognised by the government and affiliated with the J&K Board of School Education/Central Board of School Education or any other registered board in India. For those who are enrolled in private schools, the government said that the private Schools shall treat these students as part of admission under EWS and reimbursements will be made accordingly. The guardians of these children will have to register with the concerned district SP. The payments shall be made to the legal guardian (whoever incurs such expenditure on the wards) by the concerned District Superintendent of Police on the production of valid proof of guardianship by the legal guardian. In case there is any dispute about the children of a particular martyr having varying guardians e.g., one child living with their mother and the other with his family, the reimbursement shall be made to both the guardians on an actual basis, however, on the production of separate guardianship certificate to be issued by the concerned school authority. ''The reimbursement on account of the monthly fee, and transport charges, shall be made on a quarterly basis by the concerned District Superintendent of Police, (on the production of relevant vouchers), where the family of the martyr ordinarily resides. While the reimbursement on account of the expenditure incurred on uniforms and books shall be reimbursed in the month of April every year subject to the ceiling and condition mentioned in paragraph 1,'' said the order. Also watch | Ex-Tata Cliq CEO Vikas Purohit takes charge as Meta's new global head in India The government order also said that this arrangement shall be deemed to come into force fully for the year 2022-2023, besides the pending claim of Rs 15.22 lakh for the year 2019-20, 2020-21, and 2021-22 shall be reimbursed, subject to the mentioned stipulations. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: J&K gov't promises free education to children of martyred police officers

In a far-flung area in South Kashmir's Anantnag district, these villagers saw electricity for the first time since India's independence. The people of the tribal area in Tethan, Dooru of Anantnag district witnessed the lighting of electric bulbs under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "Har Ghar Bijli Yojna" for the first time ever.&nbsp;

The whole village was filled with joy when the first bulb was illuminated by the Power Development Department employees. Locals started dancing and singing around the transformers placed in the villages. And there was no end to their happiness.&nbsp;

"We have seen electricity for the first time ever. It's a very happy moment for all of us. The children are happy and would be able to study at ease. It was very difficult for them to live without electricity. They used to study under the burning torch. We are thankful to the electricity department employees for the exemplary work," said Fazal Din, a resident, of Dooru, Tetha, Anantnag.&nbsp;

The village was provided electricity under the Pradhan Mantri developmental programme "Har Ghar Bijli Yojana" which targets to illuminate every village house in the country. It was launched by PM Modi in 2019. Two main transformers with around 38 HT poles and 57 LT Poles have been placed in the Tethan village.&nbsp;

"It is a very hilly village and we have managed to provide electricity for these villagers for the first time. It was due to the schemes and efforts by the government to work so hard to provide these villagers with electricity. As these areas have no road access so we had to carry the material ourselves to install in these places," said Fayaz Ahmad, who is in the electric department.&nbsp;

The efforts made by the government to provide electricity for these far-flung areas have been appreciated by everyone in the Union Territory. The Power Development Department has been working extensively to provide electricity to areas still living in darkness.&nbsp;

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In a far-flung area in South Kashmir's Anantnag district, these villagers saw electricity for the first time since India's independence. The people of the tribal area in Tethan, Dooru of Anantnag district witnessed the lighting of electric bulbs under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "Har Ghar Bijli Yojna" for the first time ever.

In a far-flung area in South Kashmir's Anantnag district, these villagers saw electricity for the first time since India's independence. The people of the tribal area in Tethan, Dooru of Anantnag district witnessed the lighting of electric bulbs under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "Har Ghar Bijli Yojna" for the first time ever. The whole village was filled with joy when the first bulb was illuminated by the Power Development Department employees. Locals started dancing and singing around the transformers placed in the villages. And there was no end to their happiness. "We have seen electricity for the first time ever. It's a very happy moment for all of us. The children are happy and would be able to study at ease. It was very difficult for them to live without electricity. They used to study under the burning torch. We are thankful to the electricity department employees for the exemplary work," said Fazal Din, a resident, of Dooru, Tetha, Anantnag. The village was provided electricity under the Pradhan Mantri developmental programme "Har Ghar Bijli Yojana" which targets to illuminate every village house in the country. It was launched by PM Modi in 2019. Two main transformers with around 38 HT poles and 57 LT Poles have been placed in the Tethan village. "It is a very hilly village and we have managed to provide electricity for these villagers for the first time. It was due to the schemes and efforts by the government to work so hard to provide these villagers with electricity. As these areas have no road access so we had to carry the material ourselves to install in these places," said Fayaz Ahmad, who is in the electric department. The efforts made by the government to provide electricity for these far-flung areas have been appreciated by everyone in the Union Territory. The Power Development Department has been working extensively to provide electricity to areas still living in darkness. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Kashmir village gets electricity for the first time after India’s Independence

With the onset of the winter season, India's Kashmir Valley is witnessing a huge increase in tourist arrival. And this time, it's not only the ski resort in Gulmarg which is fully packed but also other destinations like the Pahalgam and Dal lake where almost all the hotels and houseboats are booked for the entire season.&nbsp;

The ski resort Gulmarg is called the winter wonderland of India and with snow-clad mountains, thousands of tourists are thronging the resort. All the hotels and guest houses are completely booked. On new year's, a lot of tourists and locals had to return from Gulmarg as there was no space available in any hotels or cottages. However, it's not only Gulmarg but tourist resorts like Pahalgam and the world-famous Dal Lake in Srinagar where thousands of tourists are also staying.&nbsp;

"We have great expectations from the winter season. Gulmarg is packed but traditionally Gulmarg has always been a winter destination. And now we are seeing tourists heading to other destinations like Pahalgam, Doodhpathri, Yousmarg and Sonamarg. We have winter activities there as well. We are promoting winter tourism because we have people who want to experience snow. It is not only Gulmarg but many such destinations that the government has added to the list. We have winter treks in Naranag, Marjoi, for people interested in adventure travel. Lots more to explore and see in Kashmir. We are getting a lot of queries for other destinations. We have a very aggressive publicity plan, and we are showcasing Kashmir globally as well," said Deeba Khalid, who is the deputy director of tourism.&nbsp;

The houseboats on Dal Lake during the freezing temperatures used to be empty but for the first time this year, the houseboats are fully booked as well. The temperatures have touched below minus six degrees and parts of the lake have frozen, and to witness these breathtaking visuals, tourists are staying in the houseboats on Dal Lake.&nbsp;

"It's the most beautiful place, the winter is something else, the frost, the frozen Dal lake. I don't think that experience can be replaced. It's absolutely stunning. From minus 2 to we are going to minus 17 to Sonamarg. We are excited it's my first time seeing snow and I wanted it to happen in India. Everyone should come here for tourism. Kashmir has won my heart. I have seen a lot of tourists. They opened tourism in January and it's nice to know," said Monita, a tourist.&nbsp;

Kashmir has been facing harsh winter conditions and to witness extreme cold, tourists are enjoying the frozen Dal Lake.&nbsp;

"Kashmir is called heaven on earth and it's a paradise and I agree with the saying. You can never have enough of this place. I had a fascination for snowfall, and I wanted winter to come in winter. In Gulmarg and Pahalgam, it looked like a picture to me. They have done a great job while hosting tourists in the winter during freezing temperatures," said Upasna Das Gupta, another tourist.&nbsp;

The tourist stakeholders in the valley are hoping that the way all records of tourism arrival were broken in the summer, the winter will see a huge rush as well.&nbsp;

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With the onset of the winter season, India's Kashmir Valley is witnessing a huge increase in tourist arrival. And this time, it's not only the ski resort in Gulmarg which is fully packed but also other destinations like the Pahalgam and Dal lake where almost all the hotels and houseboats are booked for the entire season.

With the onset of the winter season, India's Kashmir Valley is witnessing a huge increase in tourist arrival. And this time, it's not only the ski resort in Gulmarg which is fully packed but also other destinations like the Pahalgam and Dal lake where almost all the hotels and houseboats are booked for the entire season. The ski resort Gulmarg is called the winter wonderland of India and with snow-clad mountains, thousands of tourists are thronging the resort. All the hotels and guest houses are completely booked. On new year's, a lot of tourists and locals had to return from Gulmarg as there was no space available in any hotels or cottages. However, it's not only Gulmarg but tourist resorts like Pahalgam and the world-famous Dal Lake in Srinagar where thousands of tourists are also staying. "We have great expectations from the winter season. Gulmarg is packed but traditionally Gulmarg has always been a winter destination. And now we are seeing tourists heading to other destinations like Pahalgam, Doodhpathri, Yousmarg and Sonamarg. We have winter activities there as well. We are promoting winter tourism because we have people who want to experience snow. It is not only Gulmarg but many such destinations that the government has added to the list. We have winter treks in Naranag, Marjoi, for people interested in adventure travel. Lots more to explore and see in Kashmir. We are getting a lot of queries for other destinations. We have a very aggressive publicity plan, and we are showcasing Kashmir globally as well," said Deeba Khalid, who is the deputy director of tourism. The houseboats on Dal Lake during the freezing temperatures used to be empty but for the first time this year, the houseboats are fully booked as well. The temperatures have touched below minus six degrees and parts of the lake have frozen, and to witness these breathtaking visuals, tourists are staying in the houseboats on Dal Lake. "It's the most beautiful place, the winter is something else, the frost, the frozen Dal lake. I don't think that experience can be replaced. It's absolutely stunning. From minus 2 to we are going to minus 17 to Sonamarg. We are excited it's my first time seeing snow and I wanted it to happen in India. Everyone should come here for tourism. Kashmir has won my heart. I have seen a lot of tourists. They opened tourism in January and it's nice to know," said Monita, a tourist. Kashmir has been facing harsh winter conditions and to witness extreme cold, tourists are enjoying the frozen Dal Lake. "Kashmir is called heaven on earth and it's a paradise and I agree with the saying. You can never have enough of this place. I had a fascination for snowfall, and I wanted winter to come in winter. In Gulmarg and Pahalgam, it looked like a picture to me. They have done a great job while hosting tourists in the winter during freezing temperatures," said Upasna Das Gupta, another tourist. The tourist stakeholders in the valley are hoping that the way all records of tourism arrival were broken in the summer, the winter will see a huge rush as well. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Kashmir tourism peaks in winter, stakeholders expect record-breaking tourist arrivals

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Idrees Lone

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