Biz Correspondent
Srinagar, Dec 21: As Kashmir braces for the 40-day intense winter spell known as ‘Chilla-i-Kalan,’ temperatures have already plunged well below freezing across the Valley. The chilling period, characterized by a severe cold wave, is notorious for freezing water bodies, including the iconic Dal Lake, and causing water supply disruptions.
On Tuesday night, Srinagar experienced a bone-chilling low of minus 4.4 degrees Celsius, marking a drop from the previous night’s minus 3.7 degrees Celsius. Other regions in Kashmir reported similarly frigid temperatures, with Pahalgam recording a minimum of minus 6.3 degrees Celsius, Gulmarg at minus 4.4 degrees Celsius, Qazigund at minus 4 degrees Celsius, Kokernag at minus 3.3 degrees Celsius, and Kupwara at minus 3.5 degrees Celsius.
The local meteorological department predicts generally dry weather in the coming days, anticipating a further dip in minimum temperatures. This persistent cold has already led to the freezing of water bodies, including Dal Lake, and has caused the water supply lines in various parts of the Valley to freeze.
As Kashmir settles into the grip of Chilla-i-Kalan, residents are urged to take necessary precautions to combat the harsh winter conditions that lie ahead.
