Snowfall leaves several villages in Budgam disconnected

Budgam, Jan 27: Heavy snowfall in the upper reaches of Budgam district has left dozens of villages in central Kashmir disconnected, as several vital roads remain uncleared, causing hardship to residents.

Several villages in the Khan Sahib area of Budgam continue to remain cut off due to blocked roads, with locals struggling to access basic facilities. Residents have alleged that administrative negligence has forced them to live in isolation following the snowfall.

In many areas of Khan Sahib, including Faji Pora, Gati Pora, Bata Pora, Sheikhwadi Pora and adjoining localities, roads remain blocked, while electricity and water supply systems have completely collapsed. Javid Ahmad , a resident of Suthuran , Tehsil Khagh said that the main road was cleared during mid-night but complete road clearance is yet to be done. The major portion of the road inside the village was not cleared, leaving most of the vehicles stuck, added another local.

Residents also said that there are expecting mothers in their village, raising serious concerns over emergency medical access. Fayaz Ahmad, a local said the main roads connecting dozens of villages have not been cleared even after days of first snowfall. He warned that the situation poses serious risks for pregnant women and critically ill patients, as there is no way to reach hospitals during emergencies.

Affected residents further said that the line departments should ensure speedy snow clearance. Locals have appealed to higher authorities for immediate intervention to clear roads, restore essential services and prevent further suffering. Meanwhile, Nazir Ahmad, Assistant Executive Engineering from the Roads and Buildings (R&B) Department, Khansahib Budgam said snow clearance machinery has been deployed across all the tehsils. “We are working to clear all roads,” the official said, saying that most of the main roads in the district have already been cleared of snow.

By: Aala Bukhari