Snowfall ends drought-like condition, National Highway restoration progressing well: CM Omar Abdullah

Banihal, Jan 25: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday said that the timely snowfall across Jammu and Kashmir has brought relief from a prolonged dry spell and is expected to prevent water shortages during the upcoming summer months.

Talking to media persons in Banihal while travelling by road from Srinagar to Jammu, the Chief Minister said he inspected the condition of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) and also held discussions with the local MLA of Banihal.

“There was some minor inconvenience due to snowfall, but that will be resolved soon. We should thank Almighty Allah that the snowfall occurred at the right time. Jammu and Kashmir was facing drought-like conditions after December 2025, which has now ended,” Omar Abdullah said.

He expressed hope that the recent snowfall would ensure adequate water availability in the coming months, adding that prayers of the people have been answered.

The Chief Minister further stated that restoration work on NH-44 is progressing at a fast pace. He said electricity supply has been restored in most areas, while efforts are underway to restore power in remote districts that witnessed heavy snowfall.

“In some far-flung areas, restoration is taking slightly longer due to heavy snow, but the administration has assured me that electricity will be restored in all areas by this evening,” he added.

Referring to the upcoming budget session, Omar Abdullah said it would be people-centric and beneficial for the residents of Jammu and Kashmir. “Please wait for the budget. It will be for the benefit of the people,” he said.