Srinagar, Jan 31: The harshest phase of Kashmir’s winter, the 40-day-long Chillai Kalan, ended on a wet note as rain lashed the Valley on its final day. This period, known for its extreme cold and heavy snowfall, began with freezing temperatures that led to the freezing of water bodies and pipelines. However, as the days progressed, temperatures gradually increased, and even sunny days were witnessed, offering occasional relief from the biting cold.
Unlike the previous year, Kashmir’s upper reaches and popular tourist destinations experienced heavier snowfall this time, bringing cheer to winter tourism stakeholders. Even Kashmir's capital, Srinagar, recorded more snowfall than in Chillai Kalan 2024. However, despite the increased snowfall in some areas, weather experts have observed an overall deficit this year. They attribute this to unusual weather patterns, which have led to inconsistencies in snowfall distribution across the region.
Traditionally, Chillai Kalan is a crucial period for replenishing Kashmir’s glaciers and water reserves, which sustain agriculture and hydroelectric projects in the coming months. While the season managed to attract a significant number of tourists due to picturesque snow-covered landscapes, experts warn that the erratic snowfall pattern could have long-term environmental and agricultural implications.
With the end of Chillai Kalan, Kashmir now enters Chillai Khurd, a 20-day period of relatively milder cold, followed by Chillai Bachha, a 10-day transitional phase leading into spring. While temperatures are expected to rise gradually, people remain hopeful for more snowfall in the coming weeks to compensate for the shortfall and ensure adequate water availability for the summer ahead. [KNT]
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