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The recent snowfall in the Kashmir region, particularly in higher altitude areas like Gulmarg, Kupwara, and Pir ki Gali, has created hazardous driving conditions, as evidenced by a viral video depicting a car skidding uncontrollably on a snow-covered road. The video, which has garnered over 40 million views on Instagram, showcases the treacherous conditions faced by motorists and pedestrians alike. The footage opens with individuals attempting to navigate a slippery, icy stretch of road, their movements hampered by the slick surface. A car then loses control, skidding violently before coming to rest in a nearby area. The background audio features audible prayers, reflecting the anxiety and concern surrounding the incident. This incident highlights the inherent dangers associated with driving in snowy conditions, especially in mountainous regions where road surfaces can become extremely hazardous due to ice and snow accumulation.
The incident occurred near Gulmarg, a renowned tourist destination in Kashmir, underscoring the vulnerability of both residents and tourists during periods of heavy snowfall. The video's rapid dissemination across social media platforms sparked a wave of reactions, with users expressing concern, cautioning against travel during the snowy months (December to March), and questioning the decision-making of those who ventured out in such adverse weather conditions. Some comments even jokingly compared the scene to a snowy landscape in Canada, highlighting the unexpected and potentially hazardous nature of the situation. The video serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of winter weather and the importance of exercising caution and preparedness when traveling in snow-covered areas.
The Meteorological Centre in Srinagar reported a minimum temperature of minus 9 degrees Celsius in Gulmarg, significantly lower than the normal temperature and the lowest recorded temperature so far this season across the Kashmir valley. This extreme cold, coupled with the fresh snowfall, resulted in the closure of major roads such as the Mughal Road and Sinthan Road. The closure of these vital transportation routes further emphasizes the severity of the weather conditions and the resulting disruptions to travel and daily life. The incident underscores the need for improved infrastructure, better road safety measures, and increased public awareness regarding winter driving safety in regions prone to heavy snowfall. Authorities should consider implementing stricter regulations regarding winter travel, providing better weather warnings, and investing in snow removal and road maintenance to mitigate the risks associated with such conditions.
The incident in Gulmarg is not an isolated occurrence. Similar incidents of vehicles skidding and accidents happening due to adverse winter conditions are often reported during the snowfall season in mountainous regions worldwide. This highlights the universal challenge posed by snow and ice to road safety and underscores the necessity for proactive measures to ensure the safety of drivers and pedestrians. The viral video serves as a potent visual reminder of the potential dangers and should prompt a wider discussion on improving road safety in similar environments, promoting responsible travel choices during winter, and investing in better infrastructure and preparedness measures to handle extreme weather events.
Beyond the immediate impact on transportation, the heavy snowfall also affects the local economy. Tourism, a significant contributor to Kashmir's economy, can be severely affected during periods of heavy snowfall and road closures. The closure of popular tourist destinations and the disruption of travel plans can lead to significant financial losses for businesses and individuals reliant on tourism revenue. It is crucial for local authorities to strike a balance between attracting tourists and ensuring their safety during harsh winter conditions. This requires a multifaceted approach, involving improved weather forecasting, effective communication strategies, and the implementation of safety protocols to minimize the risk to both tourists and the local community.
Source: Snowfall in Kashmir: Video of how cars are skidding dangerously on road