Cold wave sweeps Kashmir

Srinagar, Mar 27 (UNI) Biting cold wave sweeps the Kashmir valley following fresh snowfall on the upper reaches and intermittent rains in the plains.

However, the Srinagar-Jammu national highway, athe only road linking Kashmir valley with the rest of the country, remained through for traffic.

The entire Kashmir valley is reeling under the biting cold due to snowfall on the upper reaches, including Khilanmarg, Sonamarg and Deksum.

However, there was no snowfall at the world famous Ski resort of Gulmarg since last evening. About three feet of snow had accumulated on the Gulmarg slopes which is a major attraction for tourists and adventure lovers.

The holy Amarnath cave in south Kashmir experienced fresh snowfall early this morning, official sources said.

Reports of snowfall were also received at several places on the 434-km-long Srinagar-Leh national highway which had been closed for traffic for six winter months on November 17 last year.

The Border Roads Organisation (BRO), responsible for the maintainance of the highway, has started snow clearance operation from both sides to put it through in the first week of May.

However, the Drass-Kargil-Leh portion of the highway remained open for traffic.

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