‘Snow No Surprise’: KCCI slams administration over inadequate preparedness

Srinagar, Dec 28: Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) expressed deep concern over the government’s inadequate preparedness in responding to snowfall that has severely disrupted daily life across various districts of Kashmir Valley.

In a statement, KCCI said that the Valley's apex business Chamber notes with dismay that given the forecast of a major snowfall which began on Friday, major roads were left unattended with minimal deployment of personnel and snow-clearing machinery by District authorities, Municipalities and Local bodies.

"Reports of passengers stranded along Jammu -Srinagar Highway is distressing. Tourists found themselves stranded enroute tourist destinations Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg, Dodhpathri etc. Many stranded tourists were rescued. The situation became so difficult that locals in Gund Kangan had to open their homes to stranded tourists, while others sought shelter in community centres. At many places, people opened masjids, homes for stranded tourists, which shows compassion and Kashmir's hospitality."

"Some Hoteliers accommodated tourist on complimentary basis. However, it raises question marks over the preparedness to manage the situation caused by a snowfall of moderate measure creating a difficult situation for the local populace. In a region where snowfall and even heavy snowfall is a regular winter occurrence, the preparedness of concerned Departments and officials is expected to be that of “ Quick Response “ to pre-empt its consequences .The situation has been further compounded by power outages and snow-covered roads, including inner locality streets , which reflect a gap in winter management protocols. The administration must ensure restoration of power supply on war footing across the valley."

The impact on sick, aged, children, students, businesses and health services is significant. Furthermore, impact on Kashmir's tourism sector is particularly concerning, as numerous visitors found themselves stranded en route to their destinations. Such incidents damage Kashmir's reputation as a premier tourist destination especially for winter tourism. It is worthwhile to mention that Government and stakeholders make huge efforts to promote tourism to Kashmir.

KCCI President, Javid Ahmad Tenga has been in constant touch with Divisional Commissioner Kashmir and other officials of administration, the statement said.

The KCCI strongly urges the government to implement immediate measures to restore normal services and ensure rapid deployment of personnel and machinery during snowfall. The Chamber emphasised that a more robust winter preparedness strategy, alongside prompt response mechanisms and boots on the ground, is essential for effectively managing such weather-related challenges, which are characteristic of Kashmir's winter season. The snowfall  is not a new thing to our winter , and therefore , administration should keep its entire machinery and men at its command in “ Quick Response Mode”’.

The KCCI commended the people of Kashmir and hoteliers for opening their hearts and homes to accommodate stranded tourists. The appreciation is also due to a travel and hospitality sector for their efforts and seamless communication with authorities to ease out the difficulties of tourists. KCCI would also like to appreciate those Departmental personnel who worked hard to help the distressed people.

The KCCI demanded that the Srinagar-Jammu Highway and other urban/ rural roads, streets, footpaths and lanes be cleared at the earliest.