Gulmarg, Baramulla: The serene slopes of Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir, turned chaotic on Saturday as fresh snowfall overnight led to significant traffic disruptions along the Srinagar-Gulmarg highway. The picturesque tourist destination, blanketed in a new layer of snow, saw an influx of visitors eager to witness the winter spectacle, only to be met with snarled traffic and delays.
Local authorities reported that the sudden snowfall, which began late Friday and continued into Saturday morning, caught many travelers off guard. Vehicles, including tourist buses and private cars, were stuck for hours as snow accumulation and icy patches slowed movement on the highway. “The road clearance teams are working tirelessly, but the heavy snow and incoming traffic have made it challenging,” said a traffic police official.
The Meteorological Department had forecasted erratic weather in the region until March 16, with Gulmarg and other higher reaches receiving moderate snow. While the stunning visuals of snow-laden trees and slopes have gone viral, the chaos on the roads has left many stranded. “We came for a fun weekend, but we’ve been stuck for over three hours,” said a frustrated tourist from Delhi.
Efforts by the Border Roads Organisation are underway to clear the highway, but officials urge travellers to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary trips until conditions improve. The snow chaos underscores the dual nature of Gulmarg’s allure—its breathtaking beauty and the logistical challenges it poses during peak winter.