Tanveer Hussain

Baramulla, Jan 20: The Sub Divisional Magistrate Gulmarg on Tuesday issued a fresh weather advisory, warning of back to back western disturbances likely to affect Jammu and Kashmir, including Gulmarg and adjoining areas of Baramulla district, over the coming days.

According to the advisory, issued in continuation of earlier directions and based on inputs from the India Meteorological Department Srinagar, intense western disturbances are expected to impact the region between January 22 and January 24, followed by another spell from the night of January 26 to the forenoon of January 28. Widespread light to moderate rain and snowfall is anticipated, with heavy precipitation at isolated places. The main activity is expected on January 23 and January 27, particularly across the Kashmir Valley, including the Sub Division Gulmarg of Tangmarg.

In view of the forecast, the general public of Gulmarg sub division, especially those living in vulnerable areas, upper reaches, hilly slopes and avalanche prone locations, have been advised to refrain from unnecessary movement and venturing into high altitude areas until weather conditions improve.

The advisory strictly prohibits the movement of heavy motor vehicles, including buses and trucks, as well as vehicles not fitted with anti skid chains, on the Tangmarg Gulmarg road and the Tangmarg Babareshi road in both directions until further orders.

Tehsildar Tangmarg, SHO Police Station Tangmarg, DO Police Post Babareshi and officials deployed at various traffic check points have been directed to ensure strict enforcement of the advisory. All vehicle owners, drivers, transporters and tourists have been asked to adhere to the instructions to avoid accidents, traffic congestion and inconvenience.

All concerned line departments, including Revenue, Health, Police, SDRF, Fire and Emergency Services, MED, PHE, R and B, PMGSY and KPDCL, have been directed to remain on high alert with men and machinery kept in readiness for snow clearance and emergency response. [KNT]