MUZAFFARABAD (Kashmir English): Heavy snowfall in Azad Kashmir over the past two days has blocked roads, schools closed in Azad Kashmir, leaving residents struggling with travel and extreme cold.
Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) has been experiencing heavy snowfall and continuous rainfall for the past two days, severely disrupting daily life in various regions. The snowfall is still ongoing in several areas, causing road blockages and making travel extremely difficult for residents.
The Meteorological Department had predicted heavy rain and snowfall until March 2, prompting authorities to warn residents and tourists about travel disruptions and extreme cold.
According to the Meteorological Department Pakistan weather alert, the powerful westerly weather system was to bombard upper regions with heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, strong gales, and snow accumulation.
Multiple sources indicate that Haveli receives total road blockages which causes travellers to choose different travel paths. The government advises caution for travellers along with directing them to choose Panjgran-Chirikot as their main travel route.
The Neelum Valley received heavy snowfalls which has left remote regions completely inaccessible. The severe weather conditions have made the Union Council of Zerilli unable to connect with its headquarters. The frigid temperature conditions continue to cause cold-related difficulties for residents throughout this period.
Official authorities have decided to shut down educational facilities due to dangerous weather along with persistent snow conditions. An official notice released during nighttime announced that all educational institutions would maintain closure for the following day.
Road conditions worsened because of snow and slush accumulation which threatens local transportation activities. The slippery conditions create challenges for motorists who further increase resident frustration because some parts of the area suffer from electricity blackouts and communication service outages.
Regional departments with local authorities continue to repair roadways even though the continuous snowfall has made their work progressively harder. The snow clearing operations remain slow because of ongoing bad weather conditions which prevents the establishment of safe driving conditions.
The local population has pushed the government to start now with a focus on removing snow blockages from roads to return transportation operations. A large number of people are demanding governments establish emergency procedures which will help ease the problems faced by the affected area residents.
People from Azad Kashmir keep faith in authority efforts to give relief support as they work quickly toward restoring normal conditions in their area.
