Kashmir has witnessed the season’s first major snowfall, transforming the region into a winter wonderland. From the lush green valleys to the snow-capped peaks, the fresh snowfall has been particularly intense across many areas, marking a dramatic shift in the weather as temperatures plummet. In the picturesque town of Sonamarg, located in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir, the landscape is now blanketed in a thick layer of snow. The snowfall has also reached the higher altitudes of Pahalgam, another popular tourist destination, which has seen its first snowfall of the season. These areas, known for their stunning natural beauty, have now been transformed into serene, snowy vistas, attracting winter enthusiasts and tourists. On the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, snow has accumulated at the Jawahar Tunnel, one of the critical mountain passes linking the Kashmir Valley to the rest of India. This has caused disruptions in traffic, with vehicles forced to navigate through slippery, snow-covered roads. Additionally, the higher reaches of Kulgam have also received their first snowfall, signaling the onset of winter in the region. The Srinagar-Leh highway has been temporarily closed due to the heavy snowfall, with authorities suspending traffic until further notice to ensure the safety of travellers. The road, which is vital for connecting Leh with the rest of the country, is subject to frequent closures during the winter months due to snow and avalanche risks. In the Bandipora district, heavy snowfall has caused significant disruptions, particularly on the Bandipora-Gurez road, which has been closed. The Razdan Top, a mountain pass on this route, is also experiencing intense snowfall, further complicating efforts to maintain road access in the region. As a result, authorities are working tirelessly to clear snow from the roads and restore connectivity. The Border Roads Organisation (BRO), responsible for maintaining these vital mountain roads, has launched snow clearance operations on Zojila Pass in Kargil, another key route that frequently faces disruptions during winter due to heavy snow. With temperatures dropping to freezing levels, the region is bracing for more snowfall in the coming days. These weather conditions pose challenges not only for travellers but also for the daily life of residents in the affected areas. The local administration and road maintenance authorities are working around the clock to ensure the safety of commuters and to keep critical roads open for emergency services. As Kashmir’s winter deepens, the picturesque snowfall is a reminder of the region’s stunning natural beauty, but it also brings the challenges of winter, particularly in remote and higher-altitude areas. While the snowfall is a boon for tourism, it also highlights the ongoing struggle to maintain connectivity and ensure the safety of those living in and traveling through this snow-bound terrain.