Bandipora, Oct 6: The Razdan Pass, often referred to as the gateway to Gurez Valley, witnessed a fresh spell of snowfall on Monday, bringing a sudden dip in temperature and marking the early onset of winter in north Kashmir’s higher reaches.
The snowfall, though light, painted the mountain slopes of Razdan Top in white, adding scenic charm to the region while also signaling the beginning of the harsh cold season ahead. According to officials, the Bandipora–Gurez road, which stretches about 84 kilometres and serves as the sole surface link between Gurez and the district headquarters, remains under close observation due to unpredictable weather conditions.
A senior official from the district administration said that although the fresh snowfall has not disrupted vehicular movement yet, authorities are keeping a strict watch on the situation. “We are continuously monitoring the Razdan stretch to ensure road safety. Any adverse change in weather may force a temporary closure to prevent accidents,” the official said.
Locals in Gurez expressed both delight and concern at the early snowfall. “The valley looks breathtaking after the first snow, but it also means our long winter isolation is near,” said Abdul Rahman, a local from Dawar. The area remains cut off from the rest of the Valley for several months during winter due to heavy snowfall that blocks the Razdan route.
The Meteorological Department has forecast more light precipitation over the upper reaches in the coming days, advising travellers to stay cautious and avoid unnecessary movement along high-altitude routes. Authorities have also appealed to locals to stay updated through official weather advisories and ensure early winter preparedness. [KNT]
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