Continuous snowfall is covering roads with a thick layer of snow. Movement has been affected across several areas. Authorities have deployed heavy machinery to carry out snow clearance operations. Efforts are ongoing to restore road connectivity and ensure safe travel.

The incident took place in the Banihal and Ramsoo sectors of Ramban district in northern India’s Jammu and Kashmir, on January 23.

Visuals show that due to continuous snowfall, roads are getting covered under a thick blanket of snow. As a result, traffic movement is facing difficulties. Snow clearance operations are underway with the help of heavy machinery.

According to reports, Banihal town in Ramban district experienced the season’s first spell of heavy snowfall on Friday. Fresh snow covered the entire region and brought winter conditions in full force. The snowfall started late Thursday night and continued for several hours. Temperatures dropped sharply and visibility remained poor during the spell.

Plains and upper reaches of Bhalesa in Doda district along with nearby areas also recorded their first snowfall following a dry period of nearly three months. Residents expressed relief and happiness as the long awaited snowfall finally arrived. Many people said the weather change brought much needed comfort after an extended dry and cold phase.

Several other areas across Jammu and Kashmir also witnessed snowfall. Baramulla and Budgam districts received a significant amount of snow. The hill resort town of Batote in Ramban district was also covered in a thick white layer. The fresh snowfall transformed the landscape and marked the arrival of peak winter conditions across the region.

Transport services were severely affected due to the weather. The Jammu Srinagar National Highway known as NH 44 was closed on Friday following heavy rain and snowfall. Traffic movement was also stopped at Jakhani Chowk in Udhampur. Authorities said the highway closure was necessary to ensure public safety.

Traffic Police Officials stated that continuous rain and snow accumulation up to Ramsoo created slippery road conditions. As a precaution all types of vehicles were halted at designated safe locations along NH 44. The decision was taken to prevent accidents and traffic congestion until weather conditions improve.

Air travel also faced major disruption due to snowfall. Srinagar Airport announced cancellation of several flights because of ongoing snowfall. Airlines also suspended operations temporarily to ensure passenger safety. IndiGo Airlines issued a travel advisory confirming suspension of flight operations in Srinagar.

The airline warned passengers about possible delays and cancellations. Travellers were advised to check their latest flight status before leaving for the airport. IndiGo also informed customers that options to rebook flights or request refunds were available for affected journeys.

In an official post on X the airline said snowfall in Srinagar had led to a temporary halt of take offs and landings. The post mentioned that extended waiting times could occur both on board aircraft and on the ground. It added that boarding formalities might be completed in advance to allow immediate departure once clearance is granted. The airline assured passengers that its team remained committed to making the waiting period as comfortable as possible.

The airline further stated that weather conditions were being closely monitored. Passengers were told they would be allowed to continue their journey once conditions improved. Customers were urged to check flight status online before heading to the airport.

Srinagar Airport also issued a public advisory confirming that several incoming and outgoing flights had been cancelled. The airport authority cited ongoing snowfall and a NOTAM issued at Delhi Airport as reasons for the cancellations. Passengers were advised to contact their respective airlines for updated information before planning travel.

In a statement shared on social media Srinagar Airport expressed regret over the inconvenience caused to passengers. The authority requested travellers to remain patient and follow official updates until flight operations resume normally.

Meanwhile, weather officials said snowfall and rain activity is expected to continue for some time. Authorities remain on alert and are monitoring road and air conditions closely to ensure public safety during the ongoing winter spell.