Srinagar's Metrological head Sonam Lotus said this is the heaviest snowfall in the past 10 years in January and there is a similar forecast for the next 12 hours. He said people near mountains have been asked to exhibit caution in view of the threat of avalanches and snow-slides.
Eight inches of snow in Srinagar and more in hinterland, however, exposed government's response to tackle the situation. Power and water supply got hit promptly because of uprooting of electric poles and damages to lines at several places. And snow clearance missions were extremely tardy. Many roads in Srinagar were clogged in snow and lots of vehicles were seen bumping into each other. Huge traffic snarls made matters worse and the administration seemed to be caught unaware.
People responded with anger, posting pictures of "callous" attitude of the administration on social media. Atiq, a resident of Gutilbagh from Ganderbal constituency, a segment which had sent Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to state Assembly lamented that snow was not lifted from the roads in his area.
"A lady patient returned after 6 km drag. A tractor was sent by the PWD (Public Works Department) which just managed to escape and flee." he tweeted. "Witnessed the agony of another sick relative walking 3 km difficult terrain to reach nowhere."
His tweet drew a response from a member of the ruling National Conference. "There would be some disruption on day one - anywhere. However, response can be more swift and better coordinated," wrote Juanid Mattoo, NC leader.
Ibnebattuta tweeted, "Stuck in traffic since last one hour now. Roads have not been cleared, drive slippery and government has already slipped. Woe this government and administration that hides when people need it the most!"
"Everything going on normally in Gupkar, why should he (Omar Abdullah) worry, let people vote," wrote Javiad Naikoo on the micro-blogging site. "We are doing our job and will speed up to restore power and water. Let the snow stop," an official said.
Reacting to the report, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah tweeted, "I appreciate the disruption that heavy snowfall causes. Teams are on stand by & will swing in to action as soon as the snowfall eases. People must accept that it is difficult to restore electricity & connectivity while it is still snowing. The situation is being monitored. (sic)"
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