Bandipora admin issues weather advisory, urges public to avoid higher reaches

Bandipora, Oct 03: The district administration in Bandipora on Friday issued a weather advisory cautioning people about heavy snowfall, rainfall, and associated hazards in the coming days. The advisory has raised particular concern for the higher reaches of the district, including Razdan Pass, where heavy snow is expected. Mid-elevations are likely to receive light snowfall while the plains may witness moderate rainfall.

The administration has also warned of thunderstorms, lightning, hail, and strong winds with speeds ranging between 40 and 70 kilometres per hour. Officials said that such conditions could disrupt farming and orchard activities, damage infrastructure, and pose serious risks to travellers.

In its appeal, the district administration urged the public to avoid travel to higher reaches and to confirm road status before attempting journeys towards Gurez. It specifically advised against night travel on hilly roads and requested farmers and orchardists to suspend their work between October 5 and 7. The advisory further underlined that people, particularly children and the elderly, should remain indoors as far as possible until the weather stabilises.

To ensure public safety, emergency helplines have been activated. People in distress can reach out to the District Control Room on 7006630771 or the Police Control Room on 9596767430. Authorities said that strict monitoring of the situation will continue and that further instructions will be issued depending on the developments.

The administration has called upon the people of Bandipora to cooperate fully, remain cautious, and follow all updates to avoid untoward incidents during the spell of inclement weather. [KNT]