This is a story of an inspiring father-daughter duo from Kashmir. 8-year-old eco-warrior Jannat is fighting hard to save the Dal lake, while her father, Tariq Ahmad, runs an ambulance Shikara- a Kashmiri boat, which he uses to ferry COVID patients living on the lake. Tariq started this initiative after he contracted the virus last year. Indian prime minister Narendra Modi has also lauded his initiative.

Kashmir Connect: A tale of Kashmir's 'Jannat'

The eight-year-old child, Jannat Tariq, is striving hard to keep the Dal lake clean. This kid was inspired by her father in conserving the lake when she was only 5. PM Modi has also lauded her for her efforts.

8-year-old girl's mission to save the Dal Lake

Floating gardens, islands, and houseboats are all things we've heard of, but Kashmir's famous Dal Lake has a floating post office. It's the only floating post office in the whole world.

A Floating post-office at Srinagar's famous Dal Lake

Floating gardens, islands, and houseboats are all things we've heard of, but Kashmir's famous Dal Lake has a floating post office. It's the only floating post office in the whole world.&nbsp;

This two-centuries-old floating post office was started in the British era and continues to deliver letters and couriers to the people living on the lake. The delivery of the post is done by a postman while travelling in a shikara.

All the services of the post office are available at this floating post office on Dal Lake while being afloat. They use a special seal of a shikara along with a boatman to put it on the envelope.&nbsp;

"This is a 200-year-old post office that served from before the Maharaja's reign to the British era. It was finally called a floating post office. There is no change in the number of posts sent around. We don't have time to talk when there is a tourist influx. Thousands of people visit this post office to take pictures. They can buy special covers, postcards and stamps from here. The letter is delivered to the houseboat by the postman, who hires a Shikara. This has been going on for years and is still going on," according to Farooq Ahmad, the Post Master.

 
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Mohd Ismail worked as a postman for India Post for many years. He has been delivering letters every day to people living on the lake. It is time-consuming to take a shikara and go to different houseboats, but the charm of doing so is what he likes the most.&nbsp;

"I have been delivering letters in Dal Lake for ten years. It's so good for my health to breathe fresh air on the lake. I deliver around 100-150 letters a day. There is also a CRPF camp within the lake, which receives a lot of letters that I deliver. It takes me hours to deliver these letters. "I start at 11 am and finish at 5:30 pm," Mohd Ismail explained.

Locals who live on or near the lake claim that the internet and social media have had a significant impact on letter writing and sending.But some people miss it as it used to be emotional to receive or send a letter in earlier times.&nbsp;

"This post office has been there for a long time. It is so easy for houseboat owners to receive and send letters. People have shifted to email and social networks for now and the art of letter writing has gone down. It was a wonderful feeling to receive or send a letter, and it was even more wonderful to open a letter and read it.I miss it all, said Noor Mohammad, the owner of a houseboat. 
 
The floating post office has a collection of old stamps and used to have a small museum in one of the rooms, which was damaged in the 2014 floods.

Floating gardens, islands, and houseboats are all things we've heard of, but Kashmir's famous Dal Lake has a floating post office. It's the only floating post office in the whole world. This two-centuries-old floating post office was started in the British era and continues to deliver letters and couriers to the people living on the lake. The delivery of the post is done by a postman while travelling in a shikara. All the services of the post office are available at this floating post office on Dal Lake while being afloat. They use a special seal of a shikara along with a boatman to put it on the envelope. "This is a 200-year-old post office that served from before the Maharaja's reign to the British era. It was finally called a floating post office. There is no change in the number of posts sent around. We don't have time to talk when there is a tourist influx. Thousands of people visit this post office to take pictures. They can buy special covers, postcards and stamps from here. The letter is delivered to the houseboat by the postman, who hires a Shikara. This has been going on for years and is still going on," according to Farooq Ahmad, the Post Master. Mohd Ismail worked as a postman for India Post for many years. He has been delivering letters every day to people living on the lake. It is time-consuming to take a shikara and go to different houseboats, but the charm of doing so is what he likes the most. "I have been delivering letters in Dal Lake for ten years. It's so good for my health to breathe fresh air on the lake. I deliver around 100-150 letters a day. There is also a CRPF camp within the lake, which receives a lot of letters that I deliver. It takes me hours to deliver these letters. "I start at 11 am and finish at 5:30 pm," Mohd Ismail explained. Locals who live on or near the lake claim that the internet and social media have had a significant impact on letter writing and sending.But some people miss it as it used to be emotional to receive or send a letter in earlier times. "This post office has been there for a long time. It is so easy for houseboat owners to receive and send letters. People have shifted to email and social networks for now and the art of letter writing has gone down. It was a wonderful feeling to receive or send a letter, and it was even more wonderful to open a letter and read it.I miss it all, said Noor Mohammad, the owner of a houseboat. The floating post office has a collection of old stamps and used to have a small museum in one of the rooms, which was damaged in the 2014 floods.

World's only floating post office in Kashmir: Delivering letters since 200 years

Kashmir is known as the crown of India and Dal Lake is said to be its jewel. However, in the past few years, the lake has been shrinking because of encroachments. The Lakes and Waterways Development Authority(LAWDA) has been trying its best to save the lake.

In the last three months, LAWDA has done more than 170 demolitions of illegal structures around the lake. People have been taking advantage of the lockdown and many such encroachments are being reported.

Now, to stop these illegal encroachments, the LAWDA has started installing CCTV cameras all around the lake.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-govt-threatens-hindu-advocacy-body-for-exposing-pakistan-armys-genocide-in-bangladesh-387944">Imran govt threatens Hindu body for exposing Pak’s genocide in Bangladesh</a>

''We have started the process of placing CCTV cameras around Dal Lake. Five cameras have been placed while 15 more are being placed at different locations. We will try to cover the whole lake in a phased manner. The camera's will be of high quality so that number plate recognition is also possible, and if people are seen carrying the construction material, we would get to know through the footage.'' says Dr Bashir Ahmad Bhat, VC LAWDA.

The authorities say reporting of events is a bit slow during the lockdown and some people are taking advantage of lockdown by constructing these illegal structures. Thousands of FIRs have also been registered against people for these encroachments. Many vehicles carrying construction material were also seized.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-in-india-one-nurse-delivers-100-babies-of-patients-while-another-vaccinates-6000-people-387770" hreflang="en">Covid in India: One nurse delivers 100 babies of patients while another vaccinates 6,000 people</a>

''In 2020, LAWDA had done more than 463 demolitions around the lake and in the last five years, we have registered 1000 FIRs against people who encroached on the lake and 124 vehicles were seized too,'' Bhat said.

Pollution is one more problem that the LAWDA is facing. While they are able to take out the plastic waste from people living on the lake, they have been&nbsp;time and again requesting people to be responsible and not throw plastic waste into the lake.

''There is a lot of sewage waste that comes out of the lake. Around 1 to 1.5 quintals of plastic is taken out on a daily basis from the people who live on the lake. We are daily taking out plastic waste which people throw while enjoying the beauty of the lake, although throwing waste into the lake has reduced to a lot of extent,'' he reported.

LAWDA has also established control rooms to monitor and supervise the de-weeding of the lake too.

Kashmir is known as the crown of India and Dal Lake is said to be its jewel. However, in the past few years, the lake has been shrinking because of encroachments.

Kashmir is known as the crown of India and Dal Lake is said to be its jewel. However, in the past few years, the lake has been shrinking because of encroachments. The Lakes and Waterways Development Authority(LAWDA) has been trying its best to save the lake. In the last three months, LAWDA has done more than 170 demolitions of illegal structures around the lake. People have been taking advantage of the lockdown and many such encroachments are being reported. Now, to stop these illegal encroachments, the LAWDA has started installing CCTV cameras all around the lake. Also read | Imran govt threatens Hindu body for exposing Pak’s genocide in Bangladesh ''We have started the process of placing CCTV cameras around Dal Lake. Five cameras have been placed while 15 more are being placed at different locations. We will try to cover the whole lake in a phased manner. The camera's will be of high quality so that number plate recognition is also possible, and if people are seen carrying the construction material, we would get to know through the footage.'' says Dr Bashir Ahmad Bhat, VC LAWDA. The authorities say reporting of events is a bit slow during the lockdown and some people are taking advantage of lockdown by constructing these illegal structures. Thousands of FIRs have also been registered against people for these encroachments. Many vehicles carrying construction material were also seized. Also read | Covid in India: One nurse delivers 100 babies of patients while another vaccinates 6,000 people ''In 2020, LAWDA had done more than 463 demolitions around the lake and in the last five years, we have registered 1000 FIRs against people who encroached on the lake and 124 vehicles were seized too,'' Bhat said. Pollution is one more problem that the LAWDA is facing. While they are able to take out the plastic waste from people living on the lake, they have been time and again requesting people to be responsible and not throw plastic waste into the lake. ''There is a lot of sewage waste that comes out of the lake. Around 1 to 1.5 quintals of plastic is taken out on a daily basis from the people who live on the lake. We are daily taking out plastic waste which people throw while enjoying the beauty of the lake, although throwing waste into the lake has reduced to a lot of extent,'' he reported. LAWDA has also established control rooms to monitor and supervise the de-weeding of the lake too.

India: 170 illegal structures demolished, CCTV camera installed to save Dal Lake

Volunteers from across Jammu & Kashmir descended on Dal Lake to remove the layer of Lily weeds that threaten the lake's ecological balance.

South Asia Diary: Campaign to clean Kashmir's Dal Lake

A boatmen named Tarik Ahmed faced social stigma after testing positive for COVID-19 as nobody came forward to his rescue. He came up with an idea of launching a water ambulance in Dal Lake for people in need.

A boatmen named Tarik Ahmed built Kashmir's first floating ambulance

Pahalgam in south Kashmir was the coldest place in the valley at -8.4 degrees Celsius, two notches below normal.

Kashmir reels under sub-zero temperatures

Dal lake covered in snow as cold wave hits J&K

A thick layer of ice was seen on most roads in Srinagar and elsewhere in the valley, making it difficult for people to drive.

Kashmir freezes as minimum temperature dips to minus 8.3 degrees celsius

Residents of India's Kashmir valley continue to face intense cold conditions. Srinagar's famous Dal Lake has frozen over. A major portion of Srinagar's Rananda Lake froze after temperatures fell to record numbers in the region.

India: Kashmir's Srinagar freezes at -8.3 degree Celsius

The lakes of Kashmir offer immense potential for water sports. Kashmir's kayaking and canoeing star Bilquis Mir trained on these water bodies, and she is now the director of the Water Sports Centre on Dal Lake. She overcame numerous hardships to become the first woman from the Valley to coach the Indian national team. Our correspondent Johan Castell travelled to Srinagar to meet India's water queen. Watch his report on Kashmir Connect, a special series on WION.

Kashmir Connect: Meet India's kayaking star on Dal Lake

Water lilies growing on ponds and lakes are beautiful to look at, and they also aid its ecosystem. but when they grow too thickly over the water's surface, the large pads interfere with oxygen exchange, which leads to algae blooms, that in turn causes stagnation. This is exactly what's happening in Kashmir's Dal lake. A part of the scenic lake is choking due to weeds and lilly pads. WION's correspondent Johan Castell travels to Srinagar to find out more.

Kashmir Connect: Removing water lilies from Dal lake

When we talk about floating markets, we always think about the ones in countries like Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia. But do you know that India too has some prominent floating markets, including one in Srinagar? The floating vegetable market on the Dal came into existence as a means of sustenance for communities that were living on or near the famous lake. WION's correspondent Johan Castell visited the scenic market. What's more, he even managed to sell some fresh vegetables. Watch this story for more.

Kashmir Connect: Dal Lake's floating wonders

An 11-year-old Kashmiri kickboxing champion. An 8-year-old girl trying to save the Dal Lake. A woman spreading menstrual hygiene awareness in the Valley. Watch the inspiring stories of these young achievers, this week on Kashmir Connect.

Kashmir connect: A WION special series

One of the most endearing sights of Kashmir that draw tourists to this valley are the houseboats on the Dal and Nagin lakes.

The story of houseboats in Kashmir | One-of-a-kind living experience | Dal Lake

The famous houseboat industry in Kashmir valley is struggling to stay afloat, courtesy COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;However, is hopeful of brighter days. For almost a&nbsp;year now, most of them haven't earned anything but are welcoming tourists.

In the 19th century when the valley was bustling with foreign tourists, mainly English, inhabitants living in boats started building floating houses which were later called houseboats. Since then, these houseboats have become a jewel of Srinagar and framed Dal lake.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-kashmiri-girl-makes-immunity-boosting-bakery-ahead-of-eid-festival-315730">Also read|&nbsp;COVID-19: Kashmiri girl makes immunity boosting bakery ahead of Eid festival</a>

Several of them are named after countries such as New Zeland, Chicago, Paris, while others are named in honor of their early and favorite guests. Many European travelers would stay in these houseboats for months, usually on their longish holidays. &nbsp;

<img alt="Houseboat" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ac3a244d-78ac-4b87-adda-b09bd6551109" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Houseboat%20%281%29.jpg" />

Tariq Ahmad is the owner of a houseboat called 'Hollywood'. He has been into houseboat business from his youth but has had a difficult time in managing daily life for a year now. He blames visitation advisories and situation in the valley for the loss, but he hopes the future will be brighter.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jk-police-carries-out-awareness-rallies-on-covid-19-lockdown-reimposed-315454">Also read|&nbsp;J&amp;K police carries out awareness rallies on COVID-19; lockdown reimposed</a>

“During the worst of times, we would have tourists here. Police have said that Srinagar city is militancy free, but the question is why aren't the tourists coming? Coronavirus has become part of our life. We welcome tourists, everyone will have to follow guidelines,” said Tariq.&nbsp;

However,&nbsp;Tariq hasn't given up. He has kept his houseboat ready to welcome tourists. Due to the high maintenance cost, one of his two houseboats is shut. Usually, he would have high occupancy in July.

Houseboat owners now want some relief from the government as the sector generates a lot of local employment.&nbsp;

These houseboats are made from cedar pine wood; the carved interiors would steal your heart with a mesmerizing view of the Himalayan mountain range and world-famous Dal lake. These incredibly beautiful houseboats along the Dal lake are now getting ready to witness the hustle and bustle again.&nbsp;

The famous houseboat industry in Kashmir valley is struggling to stay afloat, courtesy COVID-19 pandemic. However, is hopeful of brighter days. For almost a year now, most of them haven't earned anything but are welcoming tourists.

The famous houseboat industry in Kashmir valley is struggling to stay afloat, courtesy COVID-19 pandemic. However, is hopeful of brighter days. For almost a year now, most of them haven't earned anything but are welcoming tourists. In the 19th century when the valley was bustling with foreign tourists, mainly English, inhabitants living in boats started building floating houses which were later called houseboats. Since then, these houseboats have become a jewel of Srinagar and framed Dal lake. Also read| COVID-19: Kashmiri girl makes immunity boosting bakery ahead of Eid festival Several of them are named after countries such as New Zeland, Chicago, Paris, while others are named in honor of their early and favorite guests. Many European travelers would stay in these houseboats for months, usually on their longish holidays. Tariq Ahmad is the owner of a houseboat called 'Hollywood'. He has been into houseboat business from his youth but has had a difficult time in managing daily life for a year now. He blames visitation advisories and situation in the valley for the loss, but he hopes the future will be brighter. Also read| J&K police carries out awareness rallies on COVID-19; lockdown reimposed “During the worst of times, we would have tourists here. Police have said that Srinagar city is militancy free, but the question is why aren't the tourists coming? Coronavirus has become part of our life. We welcome tourists, everyone will have to follow guidelines,” said Tariq. However, Tariq hasn't given up. He has kept his houseboat ready to welcome tourists. Due to the high maintenance cost, one of his two houseboats is shut. Usually, he would have high occupancy in July. Houseboat owners now want some relief from the government as the sector generates a lot of local employment. These houseboats are made from cedar pine wood; the carved interiors would steal your heart with a mesmerizing view of the Himalayan mountain range and world-famous Dal lake. These incredibly beautiful houseboats along the Dal lake are now getting ready to witness the hustle and bustle again.

Houseboat, a floating marvel of Kashmir valley faces trouble

A seven-year-old girl has been cleaning the world famous Dal lake for two years -- an effort that has won her applause from many. Her latest achievement is that her name has now been published in a textbook of a Hyderabad school.

Jannat was born and raised in Srinagar. Her parents say she questioned littering of waste into the lake since she was a small kid.

In the past, the third grade student has won applause from Prime Minister Narendra Modi for her efforts to clean the lake. With time, she has become the face of cleaning the most famous water body of Kashmir.&nbsp;

“I want to keep this lake clean so that more people come here,” Jannat says.&nbsp;

Throughout the year, millions of tourists visit the picturesque lake to enjoy the boat ride and stay in the houseboats. But for many years, the lake has been facing the problem of pollution.&nbsp;

In 1997, the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests launched the ‘Save Dal’ project at an estimated Rs 500 crore. Since then, several projects worth millions have been launched but the result has been short lived.

“I have been also campaigning to save this lake,” Tariq Ahmad, father of Jannat, says.&nbsp;

He now hopes that his daughter inspires more young people to help curb the pollution of the Dal lake.

A seven-year-old girl has been cleaning the world famous Dal lake for two years -- an effort that has won her applause from many. Her latest achievement is that her name has now been published in a textbook of a Hyderabad school.

A seven-year-old girl has been cleaning the world famous Dal lake for two years -- an effort that has won her applause from many. Her latest achievement is that her name has now been published in a textbook of a Hyderabad school. Jannat was born and raised in Srinagar. Her parents say she questioned littering of waste into the lake since she was a small kid. In the past, the third grade student has won applause from Prime Minister Narendra Modi for her efforts to clean the lake. With time, she has become the face of cleaning the most famous water body of Kashmir. “I want to keep this lake clean so that more people come here,” Jannat says. Throughout the year, millions of tourists visit the picturesque lake to enjoy the boat ride and stay in the houseboats. But for many years, the lake has been facing the problem of pollution. In 1997, the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests launched the ‘Save Dal’ project at an estimated Rs 500 crore. Since then, several projects worth millions have been launched but the result has been short lived. “I have been also campaigning to save this lake,” Tariq Ahmad, father of Jannat, says. He now hopes that his daughter inspires more young people to help curb the pollution of the Dal lake.

Seven-year-old girl, on mission to clean Dal lake, makes it to Hyderabad school textbook

Story of a 7-year old Kashmiri Girl Jannat, Who is Cleaning Dal Lake Since 2 Years

Indian Air Force (IAF) started a flypast to thank and appreciate the COVID-19 warriors on Sunday morning. The flypast started from Srinagar's beautiful Dal lake.&nbsp;

According to the IAF officials, two C-130J Super Hercules special operations transport started their journey from Srinagar and will fly all the way to Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-colonel-major-killed-in-kupwara-encounter-296332">Also read:&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir: Colonel, major killed in Kupwara encounter</a>

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> IAF chopper showers flower petals on All India Institute of Medical Sciences to express gratitude and appreciation towards medical professionals fighting COVID19<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a> <a href="https://t.co/BLqaptSaDx">pic.twitter.com/BLqaptSaDx</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1256832592147550208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Two IAF C-130J Super Hercules special operations transport aircraft fly over Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh. The aircraft took off from Srinagar,J&amp;K and will fly all the way to Trivandrum in Kerala to show gratitude towards COVID-19 warriors. <a href="https://t.co/iFGSrbFGq0">pic.twitter.com/iFGSrbFGq0</a>
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The planes will be showering flower petals on some selected hospitals that have played a key role in treating coronavirus patients.&nbsp;

"The list of hospitals include AllMS, Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital, GTB Hospital, Loknayak Hospital, RML Hospital, Safdarjang Hospital, Ganga Ram Hospital, Baba Saheb Ambedkar Hospital, Max Saket, Rohini Hospital, Apollo Indraprastha Hospital, and Army Hospital R&amp;R," the Defence Ministry said in a statement.

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Meghalaya: Indian Air Force aircraft flypast Civil Hospital in Shillong to express gratitude towards health workers for their contribution in the fight against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> pandemic. <a href="https://t.co/15bDBR58pE">pic.twitter.com/15bDBR58pE</a>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Indian Air Force chopper showers flower petals on Chirayu Medical College &amp; Hospital in Bhopal to express gratitude towards medical professionals fighting <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MadhyaPradesh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MadhyaPradesh</a> <a href="https://t.co/fi0AtFh2Uk">pic.twitter.com/fi0AtFh2Uk</a>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/two-militants-killed-in-kashmir-encounter-operation-underway-296224">Also read: Two militants killed in Kashmir encounter; operation underway</a>

These planes are not only doing a flypast to show gratitude but are also carrying medical supplies to be delivered at an airbase. This activity is also being used as a&nbsp;part of&nbsp;the training activity of IAF and opportunity flight for transport aircraft and helicopters, which are involved in moving supplies related to the COVID-19 task.

Some IAF choppers, too, showed gratitude by showering flower petals on&nbsp;Police War Memorial and Delhi hospitals.

More such flypasts will be organised in the future, starting from Srinagar to Thiruvananthapuram, and&nbsp;from Dibrugarh in Assam to Kutch in Gujarat.

"Fighter aircraft formations, comprising Sukhoi-30 MKI, MiG-29 and Jaguar will be flying over the Rajpath and will orbit over Delhi and will be visible to the residents from rooftops," said the statement.

Indian Air Force (IAF) started a flypast to thank and appreciate the COVID-19 warriors on Sunday morning. The flypast started from Srinagar's beautiful Dal lake.

Indian Air Force (IAF) started a flypast to thank and appreciate the COVID-19 warriors on Sunday morning. The flypast started from Srinagar's beautiful Dal lake. According to the IAF officials, two C-130J Super Hercules special operations transport started their journey from Srinagar and will fly all the way to Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala. Also read: Jammu and Kashmir: Colonel, major killed in Kupwara encounter #WATCH IAF chopper showers flower petals on All India Institute of Medical Sciences to express gratitude and appreciation towards medical professionals fighting COVID19#Delhi pic.twitter.com/BLqaptSaDx — ANI (@ANI) May 3, 2020 × #WATCH Two IAF C-130J Super Hercules special operations transport aircraft fly over Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh. The aircraft took off from Srinagar,J&K and will fly all the way to Trivandrum in Kerala to show gratitude towards COVID-19 warriors. pic.twitter.com/iFGSrbFGq0 — ANI (@ANI) May 3, 2020 × The planes will be showering flower petals on some selected hospitals that have played a key role in treating coronavirus patients. "The list of hospitals include AllMS, Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital, GTB Hospital, Loknayak Hospital, RML Hospital, Safdarjang Hospital, Ganga Ram Hospital, Baba Saheb Ambedkar Hospital, Max Saket, Rohini Hospital, Apollo Indraprastha Hospital, and Army Hospital R&R," the Defence Ministry said in a statement. Meghalaya: Indian Air Force aircraft flypast Civil Hospital in Shillong to express gratitude towards health workers for their contribution in the fight against #COVID19 pandemic. pic.twitter.com/15bDBR58pE — ANI (@ANI) May 3, 2020 × #WATCH: Indian Air Force chopper showers flower petals on Chirayu Medical College & Hospital in Bhopal to express gratitude towards medical professionals fighting #COVID19. #MadhyaPradesh pic.twitter.com/fi0AtFh2Uk — ANI (@ANI) May 3, 2020 × Also read: Two militants killed in Kashmir encounter; operation underway These planes are not only doing a flypast to show gratitude but are also carrying medical supplies to be delivered at an airbase. This activity is also being used as a part of the training activity of IAF and opportunity flight for transport aircraft and helicopters, which are involved in moving supplies related to the COVID-19 task. Some IAF choppers, too, showed gratitude by showering flower petals on Police War Memorial and Delhi hospitals. More such flypasts will be organised in the future, starting from Srinagar to Thiruvananthapuram, and from Dibrugarh in Assam to Kutch in Gujarat. "Fighter aircraft formations, comprising Sukhoi-30 MKI, MiG-29 and Jaguar will be flying over the Rajpath and will orbit over Delhi and will be visible to the residents from rooftops," said the statement.

IAF starts flypast from Dal Lake to salute COVID-19 workers; transporting medical supplies too

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived on a surprise visit to Kashmir on Monday, officials said.

They said the Union minister will visit the Srinagar Passport Office located on the banks of the famous Dal Lake in Boulevard area of the city.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/s-jaishankar-to-visit-maldives-for-indian-ocean-conference-246858">S Jaishankar to visit Maldives for Indian Ocean Conference</a>

Jaishankar will also visit Passport Seva Kendra in Baramulla district of north Kashmir, the officials said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/s-jaishankar-to-pay-two-day-visit-to-nepal-from-august-21-243944">S Jaishankar to pay two-day visit to Nepal from August 21</a>

While the main purpose of the minister's visit is not yet known, there is speculation that he might meet families of the students stranded in Iran.

The parents have been appealing the government to lift the students from Iran due to coronavirus scare.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived on a surprise visit to Kashmir on Monday, officials said. They said the Union minister will visit the Srinagar Passport Office located on the banks of the famous Dal Lake in Boulevard area of the city.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived on a surprise visit to Kashmir on Monday, officials said. They said the Union minister will visit the Srinagar Passport Office located on the banks of the famous Dal Lake in Boulevard area of the city. Also Read: S Jaishankar to visit Maldives for Indian Ocean Conference Jaishankar will also visit Passport Seva Kendra in Baramulla district of north Kashmir, the officials said. Also Read: S Jaishankar to pay two-day visit to Nepal from August 21 While the main purpose of the minister's visit is not yet known, there is speculation that he might meet families of the students stranded in Iran. The parents have been appealing the government to lift the students from Iran due to coronavirus scare.

EAM Jaishankar arrives on surprise visit to Kashmir

Twenty-five foreign envoys kicked-off their two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir on February 12 with a ride on shikara, a boat famous amongst tourists visiting Dal Lake. Some of the delegation members hail from countries like Germany, France, Canada, Afghanistan, Czech Republic, Poland, and Hungary.

WION Dispatch: Foreign envoys visit Jammu and Kashmir, 2nd day of visit

On August 5, when the Centre decided to abrogate article 370, which gave Jammu and Kashmir special status, the first move was to shut down communication and the internet, to avoid any gatherings and rumours. The announcement was made mid-night with strict restrictions in every district of Kashmir valley.&nbsp;

With time, thousands of landline phones were restored but mobile internet continues to remain shut. This has not only affected common man but also lovers in the valley, who are now spending times on the banks of Dal Lake and Jhelum river.&nbsp;

Most of them are having a hard time meeting and communicating. Restaurants, which are the hot favourites of couples are also shut since the abrogation of special status.&nbsp;

On the foothill of the Himalayan mountain range and along the banks of Dal lake, dozens of couples sit and talk while trying to avoid a gaze with the onlookers. Kashmir is a conservative society and if you are spotted meeting your lover, the backlash is inevitable.

"It's hard to fix a meeting without the mobile or internet. I am waiting for my girlfriend for 30 minutes since I last communicated to her using a telephone booth. Her dad received the call first, then I had to call again after few hours, luckily, she picked it up and we fixed the meeting spot and location," says a young man, who doesn't wish to be identified. He also said that he was seeing the girl after 60 days.

Kashmiri men in their 40's are having a flashback of the times when there would be no mobile phones and speaking to one's girlfriend from kiosks was a hard task. Mobile phone services came to Kashmir in around 2002 when Mufti Sayeed became the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir. Mufti first made a phone call to then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee from Civil Secretariat in Srinagar, setting the phones buzzing.&nbsp;

"My wife is in Delhi and yesterday she tried to contact me when I was at work, but couldn't. Later, she made a phone call to me over landline at home and it was just nostalgic," says Farooq Ahmad, a resident of Lal Bazaar area of Srinagar.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Dotted with leaves of autumn Chinar and one of the most prestigious addresses in Srinagar is the Bund; it is located near the city centre. The address was one of the star attractions for the foreign tourists beginning from the British era when beautifully craved houseboats in Jhelum river would evoke romance and mystique. The Bund is no longer filled with crowds, so the couples are dotting the area, without any fear.&nbsp;

"I told my parents that I need to collect an assignment from a friend but came to meet my boyfriend here. We fix meeting day and time in advance when we meet," said a girl in her 20's.&nbsp;

People in Kashmir are hopeful that the government will soon restore the mobile phones as the situation gets back to normal.

On August 5, when the Centre decided to abrogate article 370, which gave Jammu and Kashmir special status, the first move was to shut down communication and the internet, to avoid any gatherings and rumours.

On August 5, when the Centre decided to abrogate article 370, which gave Jammu and Kashmir special status, the first move was to shut down communication and the internet, to avoid any gatherings and rumours. The announcement was made mid-night with strict restrictions in every district of Kashmir valley. With time, thousands of landline phones were restored but mobile internet continues to remain shut. This has not only affected common man but also lovers in the valley, who are now spending times on the banks of Dal Lake and Jhelum river. Most of them are having a hard time meeting and communicating. Restaurants, which are the hot favourites of couples are also shut since the abrogation of special status. On the foothill of the Himalayan mountain range and along the banks of Dal lake, dozens of couples sit and talk while trying to avoid a gaze with the onlookers. Kashmir is a conservative society and if you are spotted meeting your lover, the backlash is inevitable. "It's hard to fix a meeting without the mobile or internet. I am waiting for my girlfriend for 30 minutes since I last communicated to her using a telephone booth. Her dad received the call first, then I had to call again after few hours, luckily, she picked it up and we fixed the meeting spot and location," says a young man, who doesn't wish to be identified. He also said that he was seeing the girl after 60 days. Kashmiri men in their 40's are having a flashback of the times when there would be no mobile phones and speaking to one's girlfriend from kiosks was a hard task. Mobile phone services came to Kashmir in around 2002 when Mufti Sayeed became the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir. Mufti first made a phone call to then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee from Civil Secretariat in Srinagar, setting the phones buzzing. "My wife is in Delhi and yesterday she tried to contact me when I was at work, but couldn't. Later, she made a phone call to me over landline at home and it was just nostalgic," says Farooq Ahmad, a resident of Lal Bazaar area of Srinagar. Dotted with leaves of autumn Chinar and one of the most prestigious addresses in Srinagar is the Bund; it is located near the city centre. The address was one of the star attractions for the foreign tourists beginning from the British era when beautifully craved houseboats in Jhelum river would evoke romance and mystique. The Bund is no longer filled with crowds, so the couples are dotting the area, without any fear. "I told my parents that I need to collect an assignment from a friend but came to meet my boyfriend here. We fix meeting day and time in advance when we meet," said a girl in her 20's. People in Kashmir are hopeful that the government will soon restore the mobile phones as the situation gets back to normal.

Kashmir: Love in the times of mobile and internet shutdown

Tourism workers in Kashmir's summer capital Srinagar, home to the scenic Dal Lake that houses hundreds of floating houseboat hotels and Shikara boats, were defiant in their opposition to India's decision to strip the autonomous regions if its autonomy, saying on Tuesday (August 20) that despite declining business their main concern was their rights as Kashmiri.

Kashmir tourism industry decries Indian move as business suffers

Indian army starts cleaning drive to beautify Srinagar's Dal Lake

The picturesque Dal lake, located at the foothills of the Himalayan mountain range, in Jammu and Kashmir is the second largest lake in the state. Throughout the year, millions of tourists visit the lake to enjoy the boat ride and stay in the houseboats. But for many years, the lake has been grappling with menacing growth of weed and Azolla (a type of aquatic fern).

Now, the Indian Army has started a 21-day-long cleaning drive with an aim to clean the lake by rooting out weed and Azolla that is growing inside the water body for years.&nbsp;

The temperature here has already dipped to -7 degrees Celsius and the Army is on a relentless mission to clean the pride of Srinagar.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/at-76-degrees-temperature-breaks-28-year-record-in-srinagar-186821">In pictures: At -7.6 degrees, temperature breaks </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/at-76-degrees-temperature-breaks-28-year-record-in-srinagar-186821">28-year</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/at-76-degrees-temperature-breaks-28-year-record-in-srinagar-186821"> record in Srinagar</a>

Around 100 army men and other equipment from the engineering unit of the Indian Army have been stationed at the lake with an aim to de-weed it. This was possible after state administration sought help from the Army.&nbsp;

Most of these army men have volunteered for cleaning the lake and belong to a local unit. As a pilot project, the aim is also to speed up the uprooting of the weed and identify the factors responsible for the growth of the pollutants. Here, these army men say they are ready to volunteer for more time if asked.&nbsp;

"We are taking out the weed from roots by using the machine provided by local authorities, then our men take it out on their boats. Some of our men are taking them out manually using specific tools and methods, it's a difficult task in sub-zero temperature," said an army officer, who wasn't authorised to speak to media.&nbsp;

The total capacity of the lake has already gone down to 40 per cent and the continuing night soil discharged from around 900 houseboats is causing extreme pollution. The task for these men is tough in the rough weather conditions, the water is cold and freezing, yet the morale is high.&nbsp;

The Army is being assisted by the members Srinagar's municipality and lakes and waterways development authority who have also deployed their men and machinery into the service. Locals are also hailing the move taken up by the Army.&nbsp;

"As we know, Kashmir is known for its beauty, with time, the beauty is getting diminished. We have to take measures to save the lake. Indian Army and other organisations have joined hands for this wonderful initiative by taking the weed out from roots. We should appreciate them for this initiative," said a local.&nbsp;

In 1997, the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests launched the ‘Save Dal’ project worth Rs 500 crores, since then several projects worth millions have been launched but the result has been short-lived.

Authorities blame people for taking advantage of 2010, 2012 and 2016 summer unrest&nbsp;in the valley, leading to unabated constructions and growth in pollution. The cleaning operation will help clean the lake and restore its beauty which has been lost over the years.

The picturesque Dal lake, located at the foothills of the Himalayan mountain range, in Jammu and Kashmir is the second largest lake in the state. Throughout the year, millions of tourists visit the lake to enjoy the boat ride and stay in the houseboats.

The picturesque Dal lake, located at the foothills of the Himalayan mountain range, in Jammu and Kashmir is the second largest lake in the state. Throughout the year, millions of tourists visit the lake to enjoy the boat ride and stay in the houseboats. But for many years, the lake has been grappling with menacing growth of weed and Azolla (a type of aquatic fern). Now, the Indian Army has started a 21-day-long cleaning drive with an aim to clean the lake by rooting out weed and Azolla that is growing inside the water body for years. The temperature here has already dipped to -7 degrees Celsius and the Army is on a relentless mission to clean the pride of Srinagar. In pictures: At -7.6 degrees, temperature breaks 28-year record in Srinagar Around 100 army men and other equipment from the engineering unit of the Indian Army have been stationed at the lake with an aim to de-weed it. This was possible after state administration sought help from the Army. Most of these army men have volunteered for cleaning the lake and belong to a local unit. As a pilot project, the aim is also to speed up the uprooting of the weed and identify the factors responsible for the growth of the pollutants. Here, these army men say they are ready to volunteer for more time if asked. "We are taking out the weed from roots by using the machine provided by local authorities, then our men take it out on their boats. Some of our men are taking them out manually using specific tools and methods, it's a difficult task in sub-zero temperature," said an army officer, who wasn't authorised to speak to media. The total capacity of the lake has already gone down to 40 per cent and the continuing night soil discharged from around 900 houseboats is causing extreme pollution. The task for these men is tough in the rough weather conditions, the water is cold and freezing, yet the morale is high. The Army is being assisted by the members Srinagar's municipality and lakes and waterways development authority who have also deployed their men and machinery into the service. Locals are also hailing the move taken up by the Army. "As we know, Kashmir is known for its beauty, with time, the beauty is getting diminished. We have to take measures to save the lake. Indian Army and other organisations have joined hands for this wonderful initiative by taking the weed out from roots. We should appreciate them for this initiative," said a local. In 1997, the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests launched the ‘Save Dal’ project worth Rs 500 crores, since then several projects worth millions have been launched but the result has been short-lived. Authorities blame people for taking advantage of 2010, 2012 and 2016 summer unrest in the valley, leading to unabated constructions and growth in pollution. The cleaning operation will help clean the lake and restore its beauty which has been lost over the years.

Indian Army sets out on mission to clean Srinagar's pride - Dal lake

The cold wave sweeping Kashmir intensified Wednesday as the mercury stayed several degrees below the freezing point, resulting in frozen water bodies and water supply lines in several residential areas.

Leh town in Ladakh region recorded the lowest temperature this winter as mercury plummeted to minus 17.1C last night, a Met department official said. The nearby Kargil recorded a low of minus 14.4C, he said. 
 
Srinagar the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir&nbsp;which recorded the coldest night in 11 years on Monday at minus 6.8C, experienced a similar minimum temperature last night at minus 6.7C, the official said. He said Qazigund the gateway town to the Valley in south Kashmir recorded a low of minus 5.9C, while the nearby Kokernag town registered a low of minus 5.4C last night. 
 
Kupwara in north Kashmir recorded a low of minus 6.4C. The night temperature in Pahalgam, which serves as one of the base camps for the annual Amarnath Yatra in south Kashmir, settled at minus 7.9C, the official said. The ski-resort of Gulmarg in north Kashmir was the coldest place in the Valley at minus 9.4C. 
 
The cold wave has resulted in the freezing of some water bodies, including the fringes of the famous <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/dal-lake-freezes-partially-as-mercury-dips-in-kashmir-186587">Dal Lake in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/dal-lake-freezes-partially-as-mercury-dips-in-kashmir-186587">Srinagar</a>, and residential water supply pipes in Srinagar and other towns of the Valley. 
 
Kashmir is currently under the grip of ‘Chillai-Kalan’&nbsp;the 40-day harshest period of winter when the chances of snowfall are maximum and the temperature drops considerably. 
 
‘Chillai-Kalan’ ends on January 31, but the cold wave continues even after that. It is followed by a 20-day-long ‘Chillai-Khurd’ (small cold) and a 10-day-long ‘Chillai-Bachha’ (baby cold).

The winter this season has been largely dry, although there was a spell of snowfall in the Valley in early November. 
 
The prolonged dry spell has resulted in an increase in common ailments like cough, cold and other respiratory problems, especially among children and elderly people.

The weatherman has predicted rain or snowfall at isolated places in the Valley and Ladakh region on Wednesday.

The cold wave sweeping Kashmir intensified Wednesday as the mercury stayed several degrees below the freezing point, resulting in frozen water bodies and water supply lines in several residential areas.

The cold wave sweeping Kashmir intensified Wednesday as the mercury stayed several degrees below the freezing point, resulting in frozen water bodies and water supply lines in several residential areas. Leh town in Ladakh region recorded the lowest temperature this winter as mercury plummeted to minus 17.1C last night, a Met department official said. The nearby Kargil recorded a low of minus 14.4C, he said. Srinagar the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir which recorded the coldest night in 11 years on Monday at minus 6.8C, experienced a similar minimum temperature last night at minus 6.7C, the official said. He said Qazigund the gateway town to the Valley in south Kashmir recorded a low of minus 5.9C, while the nearby Kokernag town registered a low of minus 5.4C last night. Kupwara in north Kashmir recorded a low of minus 6.4C. The night temperature in Pahalgam, which serves as one of the base camps for the annual Amarnath Yatra in south Kashmir, settled at minus 7.9C, the official said. The ski-resort of Gulmarg in north Kashmir was the coldest place in the Valley at minus 9.4C. The cold wave has resulted in the freezing of some water bodies, including the fringes of the famous Dal Lake in Srinagar, and residential water supply pipes in Srinagar and other towns of the Valley. Kashmir is currently under the grip of ‘Chillai-Kalan’ the 40-day harshest period of winter when the chances of snowfall are maximum and the temperature drops considerably. ‘Chillai-Kalan’ ends on January 31, but the cold wave continues even after that. It is followed by a 20-day-long ‘Chillai-Khurd’ (small cold) and a 10-day-long ‘Chillai-Bachha’ (baby cold). The winter this season has been largely dry, although there was a spell of snowfall in the Valley in early November. The prolonged dry spell has resulted in an increase in common ailments like cough, cold and other respiratory problems, especially among children and elderly people. The weatherman has predicted rain or snowfall at isolated places in the Valley and Ladakh region on Wednesday.

Leh shivers at minus 17.1 degree Celcius; cold wave intensifies in Kashmir

Srinagar recorded the coldest night in 11 years as mercury dipped to minus 6.8 degrees Celsius, partially freezing the world famous Dal Lake and other water bodies.

Kashmir is currently under the grip of `Chillai-Kalan` &nbsp;the 40-day harshest period of winter when the chances of snowfall are most frequent and maximum and the temperature drops considerably.'Chillai-Kalan'&nbsp;ends on January 31, but the cold wave continues even after that in Kashmir.

The 40-day period is followed by a 20-day long 'Chillai-Khurd'&nbsp;(small cold) and a 10-day long 'Chillai-Bachha'&nbsp;(baby cold). As the areas near the lake were engulfed in snow, residents were seen battling with intense fog and chillwave.

According to India Meteorological Department (IMD), "Srinagar city registered a low of minus 6.8 degrees Celsius on Monday, which is the coldest recorded temperature in the city in almost 11 years. The city had recorded a low of minus 7.2 degrees Celsius on December 31, 2007.

"This wasn't expected that temperature will dip so early here, we are facing problems like lack of water supply but people are still coming to the city to enjoy winters," a local Pir Gulam Nabi told ANI.

As per the IMD, the temperature in the region will further plummet during the nights.

The minimum temperatures in Pahalgam (One of the base camps for the annual Amarnath yatra in south Kashmir), Kargil and Gulmarg were minus 8 degrees Celsius, minus 17 and minus 10, respectively.

Meanwhile, Katra recorded minus 6 degrees Celsius and Bannihal minus 2.

Srinagar recorded the coldest night in 11 years as mercury dipped to minus 6.8 degrees Celsius, partially freezing the world famous Dal Lake and other water bodies.

Srinagar recorded the coldest night in 11 years as mercury dipped to minus 6.8 degrees Celsius, partially freezing the world famous Dal Lake and other water bodies. Kashmir is currently under the grip of `Chillai-Kalan` the 40-day harshest period of winter when the chances of snowfall are most frequent and maximum and the temperature drops considerably.'Chillai-Kalan' ends on January 31, but the cold wave continues even after that in Kashmir. The 40-day period is followed by a 20-day long 'Chillai-Khurd' (small cold) and a 10-day long 'Chillai-Bachha' (baby cold). As the areas near the lake were engulfed in snow, residents were seen battling with intense fog and chillwave. According to India Meteorological Department (IMD), "Srinagar city registered a low of minus 6.8 degrees Celsius on Monday, which is the coldest recorded temperature in the city in almost 11 years. The city had recorded a low of minus 7.2 degrees Celsius on December 31, 2007. "This wasn't expected that temperature will dip so early here, we are facing problems like lack of water supply but people are still coming to the city to enjoy winters," a local Pir Gulam Nabi told ANI. As per the IMD, the temperature in the region will further plummet during the nights. The minimum temperatures in Pahalgam (One of the base camps for the annual Amarnath yatra in south Kashmir), Kargil and Gulmarg were minus 8 degrees Celsius, minus 17 and minus 10, respectively. Meanwhile, Katra recorded minus 6 degrees Celsius and Bannihal minus 2.

Dal Lake freezes partially as mercury dips in Kashmir

Srinagar -- the summer capital of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/un-snubs-pakistan-on-jammu-and-kashmir-185882">Jammu and Kashmir</a> -- recorded the coldest night in 11 years as the minimum temperature plunged to minus 6.8 degrees Celsius, resulting in partial freezing of the Dal Lake and water supply lines to residential areas on Monday.

The all-time low recorded in the month of December in Srinagar is minus 12.8 degrees Celsius on December 13, 1934.

"Srinagar city recorded a low of minus 6.8 degrees Celsius. This is the coldest recorded temperature in the city in almost 11 years. The city had registered a low of minus 7.2 degrees Celsius on December 31, 2007," an official of the MET department told PTI on Monday.

The cold wave resulted in freezing of some water bodies, including the fringes of the famous Dal Lake here, and residential water supply pipes.

The official said Qazigund the gateway town to the valley - in south Kashmir recorded a low of minus 5 degrees Celsius, while the nearby Kokernag town registered a low of minus 3.9 degrees Celsius on Sunday night.

Kupwara in north Kashmir recorded a low of minus 6 degrees Celsius on Sunday night, he said.

The night temperature in Pahalgam, which serves as one of the base camps for the annual Amarnath yatra in south Kashmir, settled at a low of minus 7.2 degrees Celsius on Sunday night, the official said, adding the resort was colder than Gulmarg and the coldest place in the valley.

The ski-resort of Gulmarg in north Kashmir recorded the minimum temperature of minus 6.8 degrees Celsius, he said.

The official said Leh recorded a low of minus 14.7 degrees Celsius on Sunday night down from minus 14.3 degrees Celsius the previous night which was the coldest night of the season in the frontier town.

The nearby Kargil recorded a low of minus 15.3 degrees Celsius, they added.

Kashmir is currently under the grip of 'Chillai-Kalan' the 40-day harshest period of winter when the chances of snowfall are most frequent and maximum and the temperature drops considerably.

'Chillai-Kalan' ends on January 31, but the cold wave continues even after that in Kashmir.&nbsp;

The 40-day period is followed by a 20-day long 'Chillai-Khurd' (small cold) and a 10-day long 'Chillai-Bachha' (baby cold).

However, the winter this season has been dry so far, although there was a spell of early snowfall in the valley in first and second week of November.

The prolonged dry spell has resulted in an increase in common ailments like cough, cold and other respiratory problems, especially among children and elderly.

The Met office has forecast mainly dry weather till Wednesday.

Srinagar -- the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir -- recorded the coldest night in 11 years as the minimum temperature plunged to minus 6.8 degrees Celsius, resulting in partial freezing of the Dal Lake and water supply lines to residential areas on Monday.

Srinagar -- the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir -- recorded the coldest night in 11 years as the minimum temperature plunged to minus 6.8 degrees Celsius, resulting in partial freezing of the Dal Lake and water supply lines to residential areas on Monday. The all-time low recorded in the month of December in Srinagar is minus 12.8 degrees Celsius on December 13, 1934. "Srinagar city recorded a low of minus 6.8 degrees Celsius. This is the coldest recorded temperature in the city in almost 11 years. The city had registered a low of minus 7.2 degrees Celsius on December 31, 2007," an official of the MET department told PTI on Monday. The cold wave resulted in freezing of some water bodies, including the fringes of the famous Dal Lake here, and residential water supply pipes. The official said Qazigund the gateway town to the valley - in south Kashmir recorded a low of minus 5 degrees Celsius, while the nearby Kokernag town registered a low of minus 3.9 degrees Celsius on Sunday night. Kupwara in north Kashmir recorded a low of minus 6 degrees Celsius on Sunday night, he said. The night temperature in Pahalgam, which serves as one of the base camps for the annual Amarnath yatra in south Kashmir, settled at a low of minus 7.2 degrees Celsius on Sunday night, the official said, adding the resort was colder than Gulmarg and the coldest place in the valley. The ski-resort of Gulmarg in north Kashmir recorded the minimum temperature of minus 6.8 degrees Celsius, he said. The official said Leh recorded a low of minus 14.7 degrees Celsius on Sunday night down from minus 14.3 degrees Celsius the previous night which was the coldest night of the season in the frontier town. The nearby Kargil recorded a low of minus 15.3 degrees Celsius, they added. Kashmir is currently under the grip of 'Chillai-Kalan' the 40-day harshest period of winter when the chances of snowfall are most frequent and maximum and the temperature drops considerably. 'Chillai-Kalan' ends on January 31, but the cold wave continues even after that in Kashmir. The 40-day period is followed by a 20-day long 'Chillai-Khurd' (small cold) and a 10-day long 'Chillai-Bachha' (baby cold). However, the winter this season has been dry so far, although there was a spell of early snowfall in the valley in first and second week of November. The prolonged dry spell has resulted in an increase in common ailments like cough, cold and other respiratory problems, especially among children and elderly. The Met office has forecast mainly dry weather till Wednesday.

Watch: Srinagar records coldest night in 11 years

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