Kashmir under grip of severe cold following fresh snowfall

Srinagar, Mar 16 (UNI) Even after the 70-day-long three ''Chilas'', coldest period in the winter, are over, the entire Kashmir valley remained under the grip of severe cold following fresh snowfall on the upper reaches while plains had intermittent rains.

Official sources said about one feet of fresh snowfall was recorded at Kongdori while world famous ski resort of Gulmarg and Khilanmarg experienced about six inches yesterday.

The holy Amarnath cave also experienced about one feet of fresh snowfall while about eight inches to one feet snowfall was recorded at Panjtherni, Sheshnag, Mahaguns and Pissotop.

The other upper reaches in the Kashmir also had fresh snowfall resulting in considerable cold, forcing people to wear warm cloths.

The plains, including Srinagar city, had intermittent rains resulting in further drop in the temperature disrupting normal life.

The three Chilas--Chilai Kalan, Chilai Khurad and Chilai Bacha--, the colest period in the winter were over on March Ist.

The Zojila pass, highest point on the 434-km-long Srinagar- Leh national Highway also recorded fresh snowfall. The highway was closed for six winter months on November 17 due to snowfall.

However, the Drass-kargil-Leh highway is through for traffic.

The Border Roads Organisation (BRO), responsible for the maintenance of the highway, has already started snow clearance work on the highway.

UNI BAS SHB BS1357