Indus Valley Times

Jammu/Kashmir,Jan 31 :  The onset of snowfall across parts of Jammu, Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and the Himalayas has infused a wave of optimism among farmers, fruit growers, and the tourism industry.

The local Meteorological Department has issued an orange warning, indicating heavy snow and rains in isolated areas on January 31 and February 1, which is expected to continue the intermittent snowfall that began Tuesday night.

Gulmarg: Tourists amid light snowfall at ski resort Gulmarg, in Baramulla district, Sunday, Jan. 28, 2024. Gulmarg received a fresh snowfall breaking a two-month-long dry spell. (PTI Photo)

This climatic turnaround is particularly welcome after a prolonged dry spell that led to significant crop losses for farmers and fruit and vegetable growers. The fresh snowfall is anticipated to be beneficial for Rabi crops, with the Agriculture department’s spokesperson highlighting the positive implications of the wet spell.

The tourism sector, which has been languishing due to a lack of snow, is now looking forward to a boost in tourist arrivals. Key resorts like Manali, Dalhousie, Sangla, Narkanda, and Kufri have experienced moderate snowfall, while scattered rains have quenched the mid and low hills.

Despite the cold wave conditions and dense fog in some areas, the snowfall has raised hopes for a revival in business, especially after a disappointing New Year’s occupancy rate of about 60 percent in Manali and Shimla — the lowest in four decades.

Local hoteliers are optimistic, expecting an increase in tourist footfall and better business in the days ahead. The snowfall has also brought joy to the tourism sector in Kashmir, where stakeholders had been facing challenges due to the absence of snow.

Gulmarg: Vehicles on a road amid light snowfall near ski resort Gulmarg, in Baramulla district. (PTI Photo)

The recent snowfall towards the end of Chilla-i-Kalan — a 40-day period known for its harsh winter and high likelihood of snow — has been a cause for celebration among tourists and industry players alike.

Tourist destinations such as Gulmarg and Sonamarg are bustling with visitors, including children, who are reveling in the snowy landscapes.

The Meteorological Department’s forecast suggests light to moderate rain or snow in many parts of the Union Territory, with heavy snowfall expected over higher reaches like Kupwara, Bandipora, Baramulla, Ganderbal, Shopian, Kulgam, and Anantnag districts in the coming days.

Gulmarg: Tourists amid light snowfall at ski resort Gulmarg, in Baramulla district, Sunday. (PTI Photo)

The recent snowfall marks a significant shift from the snow drought experienced earlier this winter, which had raised concerns about the local ecology and livelihoods. With the current weather patterns, there is renewed hope for the region’s agriculture, water resources, and economic activities dependent on winter tourism .

-The India Today