Snowfall brings cheers to Srinagarites

Srinagar, Feb 4: After a prolonged dry spell, Srinagarites woke up to a major snowfall on Sunday and celebrated nature’s bounty.

Social media platforms were full of pictures of children, young and elderly making snowmen, snow sliding and clicking selfies. Some even played football amid the snowfall.

“After prolonged dry spell in Chillai Kalan, we were hopeless and thought that there wouldn’t be any snow, at least in the plains. After a light spell of snowfall a few days ago, we were elated to witness a major snow spell today. I woke up early in the morning along with my kids and went for a stroll amid snowfall. Clicking pictures amid the thick sheet of snow was worth it,” said Abid Ahmad, a resident of Srinagar.

With Srinagar outskirts blessed with picturesque landscape, many youngsters were seen indulging in snow sliding and having fun in the snow. Many parents had brought their kids along and enjoyed snow fights and sliding using thin sheets of polythene. One such scene was witnessed at Burzahama, where the area is full of such slopes around the archaeological site.

“We are a group of friends and have been enjoying snow sliding here, and sometimes even the adult guys take these polythene sheets from us and enjoy it,” said Fazil Ahmad, one of the children enjoying the snow ride.

Another group of youngsters played football amid heavy snowfall. They recorded the occasion on their cell phones— capturing memories.

“We play football here in the summer, and for a change, we thought, why not make some memories and do some exercise amid snowfall. The footfall session was fun, and as there were no rules to be followed…everyone jumped in and enjoyed it. It is one of the best days for me in these months...snowfall after a long time is a blessing for us,” said Umar Farooq, a football enthusiast from Burzahama.

Pictures of snow sculpting and snowmen making were also making rounds on social media. Ahmad Kaiser, a kindergarten student, did not miss the opportunity to make one. “I love snowfall and making snowmen. My aunt helped me a bit, and I wish there was more snow,” elated Ahmad said while pointing toward his newly made snowman.

In addition to locals, many tourists enjoyed the snowfall in Srinagar’s commercial hub Lal Chowk. Several tourists enjoyed throwing snowballs at each other near iconic Ghanta Ghar.

“This is our first time to witness snowfall in Srinagar. We have been here before, but not in winter. We feel lucky to have an opportunity to enjoy such a scenic beauty,” said a group of tourists at Lal Chowk.