Kashmir Sees Fresh Snowfall in Higher Reaches; Tourist Rush Triggers Traffic Snarls in Sonamarg
By: Javid Amin | 16 January 2026
Snowfall Returns, So Do the Crowds
Fresh snowfall once again transformed Kashmir’s higher reaches into a winter postcard on January 17, 2026, drawing thousands of tourists eager to experience snow-covered landscapes. From Sonamarg in Ganderbal district to Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and the Zojila Pass, the renewed spell of snow revived winter tourism after a relatively dry period.
However, the surge in visitors also exposed familiar vulnerabilities. Narrow mountain roads, limited parking facilities, and sudden tourist influx combined to trigger severe traffic snarls, particularly in Sonamarg, where long queues of vehicles remained stranded for hours.
Sonamarg: Snowfall and Standstill
Moderate Snow, Massive Footfall
Sonamarg received moderate snowfall, enough to blanket meadows, roads, and rooftops, instantly turning the tourist hotspot into one of the most visited locations of the day. Social media buzz and real-time weather updates encouraged spontaneous travel, leading to an unregulated influx of vehicles.
Local officials said the volume of tourists far exceeded routine winter-day capacity, overwhelming traffic management systems.
Traffic Jams Stretch for Kilometres
As snow accumulated on the Srinagar–Sonamarg road, vehicles began slowing down, eventually resulting in bumper-to-bumper traffic jams. In several stretches, cars and buses were immobilised due to slippery surfaces and inadequate snow clearance.
Police and CRPF Step In
Recognising the scale of disruption, Jammu and Kashmir Police and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were deployed on the ground.
Their roles included:
- Assisting stranded tourists
- Regulating traffic movement
- Coordinating with road maintenance teams
- Ensuring emergency vehicles could pass
Officials said priority was given to clearing bottlenecks and escorting vehicles safely out of high-risk zones.
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Snowfall Across the Valley: A Broader Picture
While Sonamarg bore the brunt of congestion, snowfall was reported across several major destinations:
- Gulmarg: Around 3–4 inches of fresh snow, boosting skiing and snowboarding activity
- Pahalgam: Approximately 2–3 inches, attracting both leisure tourists and pilgrims
- Zojila Pass: Heavy snowfall of 8–10 inches, leading to traffic restrictions and transit disruption
The widespread snowfall enhanced Kashmir’s winter appeal but also increased logistical challenges.
Tourism Impact: Economic Boost Amid Logistical Stress
Revival After a Dry Spell
Tourism stakeholders welcomed the snowfall, saying it revived bookings after weeks of subdued activity. Hotels in Gulmarg and Sonamarg reported higher occupancy, while taxi operators and local guides saw renewed demand.
Adventure Sports Gain Momentum
Gulmarg’s slopes, already known for world-class powder snow, are expected to see increased participation in:
- Skiing
- Snowboarding
- Snowshoeing
The fresh snow has also raised expectations for extended winter sports seasons.
Infrastructure Under Pressure
The events of January 17 highlighted recurring structural issues:
Road Limitations
Mountain roads remain narrow, with limited passing points, making them vulnerable to sudden traffic surges.
Parking Shortages
In Sonamarg and Gulmarg, inadequate parking infrastructure forces vehicles onto roadsides, worsening congestion.
Emergency Preparedness
While security forces responded effectively, the strain on emergency and rescue services remains a concern during peak tourist days.
Safety Concerns on Snow-Covered Roads
Authorities warned that:
- Slippery conditions significantly increase accident risk
- Drivers unfamiliar with hill terrain pose additional danger
- Night travel during snowfall should be avoided
Tourists were advised to use vehicles equipped with snow chains and follow official advisories before travel.
Comparative Snapshot: Snowfall and Impact
| Location | Snowfall | Tourist Impact | Traffic Situation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sonamarg | Moderate | Heavy rush | Severe jams |
| Gulmarg | 3–4 inches | Skiing boost | Managed |
| Pahalgam | 2–3 inches | Leisure + pilgrimage | Moderate |
| Zojila Pass | 8–10 inches | Transit disruption | Restricted |
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The Larger Context: Tourism Growth vs Capacity
The snowfall episode underscores a growing contradiction in Kashmir’s tourism story. While visitor numbers continue to rise, infrastructure expansion has not kept pace.
With the government actively promoting winter tourism, including skiing and adventure sports, managing peak-day surges will be critical to sustaining tourist confidence.
What Needs Attention Going Forward
Experts suggest:
- Real-time traffic regulation systems
- Staggered tourist entry during snowfall days
- Improved parking and holding zones
- Stronger coordination between tourism and traffic authorities
Without such measures, natural beauty risks being overshadowed by logistical frustration.
Conclusion: A Double-Edged Snowfall
The fresh snowfall of January 17 brought Kashmir’s winter charm back into focus, drawing crowds eager for snow-laden landscapes and adventure. Yet, the traffic snarls in Sonamarg served as a reminder that tourism success carries operational challenges.
As Kashmir positions itself as a premier winter destination, balancing visitor enthusiasm with safety, accessibility, and infrastructure readiness will determine whether such snowfalls remain a blessing—or become a bottleneck.
