Peerzada Sayeed
Karnah: The Meteorological Department has issued a warning for heavy snowfall in the upper regions of Karnah, resulting in the closure of the Karnah-Kupwara road. Fresh snow exceeding 1 foot has been recorded at Sadhna Top, along with incidents of avalanches and stonefall along the route.
With the road closed, eleven individuals, including four army recruitment hopefuls, are stranded at Sadhna Top, urgently seeking aid. The Meteorological Department predicts continued heavy snowfall in the upper areas of Kupwara district, coupled with sporadic rainfall in the plains.
Areas like Tangdhar and Teetwal blocks have seen rainfall, causing rivers and streams to swell and flooding in some spots. Additionally, remote regions such as Gundi Syedan, Gundi Gujran, Chiterkote, and Haridal roads have become perilous due to slippery conditions.
Fresh snowfall has been reported in several areas, including Pharkian Top, Sadhna Top, Bangus Valley, Shams Bhari Mountains, Ragni, and Tayya, advising against travel due to the risk of avalanches and stonefall.
In these circumstances, eleven individuals, including four aspiring army recruits, await rescue at Sadhna Top. A senior Indian Army officer confirmed their situation, stressing caution due to the severe weather. Plans for accommodation and assistance are in progress, with snow accumulation reaching approximately 1 foot on the road and incidents of stonefall reported at Khoni Nallah.
Speaking to our correspondent, the Indian Army officer mentioned that arrangements for shelter and food are available for those stranded at Sadhna Top. Once the weather improves and authorities give clearance, stranded passengers will be allowed to proceed from both Chowkibal and Tangdar. Residents of Karnah are urged not to undertake journeys in these conditions, as continuous rain and snowfall increase the risk of snowslides.
