As temperatures plunge, south Kashmir warms up to Hamams, Harissa

Shopian, Nov 24: An early and sharp dip in temperatures across south Kashmir’s Shopian and Pulwama districts has sent residents rushing to fire up Hamams, switch on heaters and stock up on winter delicacies, with the season’s chill arriving weeks ahead of schedule.

Independent weatherman Faizan Arif told Greater Kashmir that there has been a considerable dip in temperature.

Residents said the early onset of subzero temperatures has pushed families to begin winter preparations much sooner than usual. “We usually start using the hamam in late November, but the cold is much harsher this year,” said Abdul Rashid of Shopian. “With temperatures dipping to nearly minus four, it’s impossible to manage without heating.”

Shopkeepers across Shopian and Pulwama reported a sharp spike in sales of firewood, gas heaters and electric blankets. An electrical shop owner in Pulwama said two fresh consignments of heating appliances have already sold out. “People are preparing early this winter,” he said.

Winter delicacies in demand

Along with heaters, south Kashmir’s markets are also witnessing an early-season rush for traditional winter foods. Harissa, the slow-cooked meat delicacy that usually dominates winter mornings, is flying off shelves as residents turn to comfort food to beat the biting cold.

“People start craving Harissa as soon as temperatures dip, but this year they are buying it much earlier,” said Waseem Ahmad, a Harissa seller in Pulwama. “The cold set in quickly—and so did the rush at our shops.”

Health officials, meanwhile, have advised residents—particularly the elderly and children—to take precautions against the sudden temperature drop, warning that the sharp decline in mercury can increase the risk of respiratory illnesses.