Waterside escapes scale up amid soaring temperatures

Bandipora, July 22: Blessed by nature’s bounty, scores of locals and visitors alike are flocking to the gushing, icy-cold waters of north Kashmir's Bandipora district as temperatures soar.

Renowned for its majestic landscapes, abundant freshwater streams, meadows, and lakes, Bandipora is emerging as a favoured recreational spot to escape the blistering heat.

People are seen making a beeline for hamlets like Athwatoo and Surinder, where glacial waters cut through mountains, providing ideal spots to sit and relax amidst the cool, breezy winds.

Some braver souls are spotted taking a dip in waters and shivering as the bright sun shines down.

Moreover, visitors are now pitching tents for overnight stays, with local businessman Umar Shaban, 27, who recently stayed at Athwatoo, saying, “By nightfall, the experience becomes heavenly.”

“The sounds of water, birds, and the freshness in the air, complemented by the beautiful landscape, make the stay incredibly peaceful,” he said.

Not only are these places bustling with visitors, but other areas like Madhumati Nallah and Arin Stream also see significant local footfall during evenings.

“Think of this as our Foreshore Road or Boulevard,” said Javid Ahmad Shah, a local businessman residing along Madhumati's banks.

With a newly macadamised stretch of road, he said, “Families come here in the evening to sit by the waterside and cool off.”

Freshwater streams also provide ideal conditions for anglers, with trout fishing a common sight.

While Gurez remains a top destination for tourists enjoying the breathtaking beauty along the blue waters of the Kishanganga River, locals are exploring other offbeat destinations like Chandaji and Vewan, where a freshwater stream flows alongside a PMGSY-carved road.

Other favoured spots include Nagmarg, Kemsar, Doomgali, Nachni, Detwaas, Sheerasar Gangbal, and Lashnapingin, which are ideal for trekking enthusiasts.

Given that Wular Lake covers a significant portion of the district, people are flocking to lakeside areas to cool off.

In Sumbal, major attractions include Naninara Island in Mansbal Lake as well as Nallah Ferozpor and Shadipora Canal.

"Many youth are seen cooling off in these water bodies, while families enjoy relaxing times on the island,” said Sajid Rasool, a resident.

Even as people escape the soaring heat, they are finding it equally difficult to locate safe places to spend time at some of these spots.

They urge the administration to establish designated parks and eco-friendly resting places to provide visitors with a sense of security.

“The administration should act and create eco-friendly picnic spots and parks,” said Kousar Mushtaq, a visitor. “It will provide a sense of security and, in turn, boost tourism.”