Officials continue to assist stranded passengers and vehicles in different parts of the district amid snowfall. Police personnel remain deployed on vulnerable road stretches. They are providing on-the-ground support and relief measures to ensure public safety during harsh weather conditions.

The incident took place in Poonch district, in northern India's Jammu and Kashmir, on January 23.

Visuals show that a thick layer of snow is seen accumulating on hill roads due to continuous snowfall. Amid this, local police are carefully clearing snow and helping stranded vehicles move out safely.

According to reports, the Meteorological Department has forecast that a fresh weather system is likely to affect Jammu and Kashmir along with adjoining areas of Poonch from the evening of January 22 until January 31, 2026. Under its influence widespread moderate rain snowfall and thunderstorms are expected at most locations across the region.

In response to the advisory, the Chief Medical Officer has issued directions to strengthen preparedness at health facilities. Block Medical Officers of Mandi Mendhar and Surankote have been instructed to immediately report their level of readiness. This includes availability of medical staff, ambulances with drivers and essential supplies at their respective institutions. All staff members and required machinery have been directed to remain prepared round the clock.

The order also requires all Block Medical Officers to activate emergency control rooms without delay. These control rooms will function to ensure timely information sharing, continuous monitoring and effective management of any emergencies arising due to adverse weather.

Ambulances have been kept on standby for immediate deployment. All government health institutions across the district have been instructed to operate 24 hours a day throughout the advisory period.

Special emphasis has been placed on maternal healthcare during this time. Authorities have ordered that all pregnant women whose expected delivery dates fall between January 20 and February 28, 2026, must be shifted in advance. They will be accommodated at District Hospitals, Community Health Centres and other designated delivery points. This measure aims to ensure safe institutional deliveries and prevent complications during severe weather.

Meanwhile, Drawing and Disbursing Officers have been directed to enforce strict attendance across departments. No officer or official has been permitted to leave their assigned station or health institution during this period. All forms of leave have been cancelled with immediate effect except maternity leave. Employees who are currently on leave have been instructed to return to duty without delay. Officials said these steps are necessary to ensure uninterrupted services and public safety during the prolonged spell of adverse weather.