Srinagar Shivers: Record-Breaking Cold Brings Life to a Standstill
Srinagar 21 Dec: The picturesque valley of Srinagar has always been a winter wonderland, but this year, it turned into an icy ordeal. The city recently experienced its coldest night in 24 years, with temperatures plunging to a bone-chilling -8.5°C. This extreme weather, part of the infamous 40-day winter period known as ‘Chillai-Kalan,’ has transformed the daily lives of locals and made survival a challenge.
In this article, we’ll delve deeper into the causes, effects, and historical significance of this record-breaking cold wave, while also exploring how locals are coping with these unforgiving conditions.
The Icy Reality: Coldest Night in 24 Years
On a freezing winter night, Srinagar saw its mercury levels dip to -8.5°C, the coldest since 1995. This broke several records:
- The previous low was -7.7°C in 2018.
- In 2000, the city recorded a temperature of -7.9°C.
- The all-time lowest temperature remains -12.8°C, recorded on December 13, 1934.
Other parts of Kashmir have also been engulfed by this cold wave:
- Pahalgam: Recorded -8.6°C.
- Qazigund: Experienced -8.2°C.
- Gulmarg: Noted -6.2°C.
The Frozen Dal Lake: Nature’s Icy Canvas
One of the most striking images of this winter is the partially frozen Dal Lake, a landmark that symbolizes Srinagar. The frozen waters have attracted curious locals and tourists who have ventured to walk on its icy surface. While it provides a surreal experience, authorities have cautioned against walking on the lake due to safety concerns.
Chillai Kalan, harshest period of winter, begins in Kashmir
Chillai Kalan, the 40 days of harshest winter, commenced in Kashmir on Saturday with Srinagar experiencing its coldest December night in five decades at minus 8.5 degrees Celsius, according to the meteorological department.
The intense cold led to the freezing of several water bodies, including parts of the famous Dal Lake here, and water supply lines in many areas of the city and elsewhere in the valley. ‘Chillai Kalan’ will end on January 31 next year but the cold wave continues in the valley as it is followed by a 20-day ‘Chillai-Khurd’ (small cold) and a 10-day ‘Chillai-Bachha’ (baby cold).
What is ‘Chillai-Kalan’?
The biting cold is attributed to ‘Chillai-Kalan,’ a 40-day period of extreme winter that starts on December 21 and lasts until January 30. Historically significant and culturally ingrained in Kashmiri life, this period is marked by:
- Lowest temperatures of the year.
- Freezing of water bodies, leading to disruptions in daily life.
- Snowfall that can blanket the region for days, affecting transportation and infrastructure.
The Harsh Impact on Daily Life
1. Frozen Water Supplies
Water pipelines have frozen solid in many areas, forcing residents to melt snow or ice to meet basic needs. The lack of running water has become one of the most pressing challenges for households.
2. Slippery Roads and Disrupted Transportation
Roads covered in black ice have become dangerously slippery, leading to accidents and delays in transportation. Public services, including ambulances and goods carriers, are struggling to navigate these icy routes.
3. Challenges for the Poor and Homeless
For those without proper heating or shelter, the cold has become a life-threatening ordeal. Local charities and community organizations are stepping in, providing blankets, food, and temporary shelters to help the vulnerable survive.
4. Power Cuts and Heating Woes
Frequent power outages have compounded the misery, leaving many homes without adequate heating. While wood-fired heaters and kangris (traditional fire pots) offer some relief, they fall short in such extreme conditions.
The Historical Perspective on Extreme Winters
Kashmir has always been known for its harsh winters, but record-breaking temperatures are not a new phenomenon.
- The coldest winter in recorded history was in 1934, when temperatures plunged to -12.8°C.
- Winters in the 1990s also saw extreme cold spells, leaving locals to rely on traditional coping mechanisms.
Adapting to the Freeze: How Kashmiris Cope
1. Traditional Heating Methods
- Kangris: These portable fire pots are a staple in Kashmiri households, carried under pherans (woolen cloaks) to provide warmth.
- Bukharis: Wood or coal-burning stoves are still used in many homes to combat the cold.
2. Layered Clothing
Thick woolens, multiple layers, and heavy coats have become essential for survival. Many locals also rely on pherans, which are not just warm but also culturally significant.
3. Community Support
In the true spirit of Kashmiri hospitality, neighbors and communities often come together to share resources, be it firewood, blankets, or food.
4. Innovative Water Solutions
Residents have turned to melting ice and snow as an alternative water source, boiling it for drinking and cooking.
Tourism Amidst the Freeze
Despite the challenges, winter in Kashmir remains a draw for tourists. The sight of snow-covered mountains, frozen lakes, and icy landscapes is a magnet for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
- Gulmarg: Known for its world-class skiing facilities, Gulmarg continues to attract tourists despite the freezing conditions.
- Dal Lake: The frozen sections of the lake have become an unusual attraction for visitors.
Local businesses catering to winter tourism are doing their best to accommodate guests, even amid power cuts and logistical issues.
A Call for Infrastructure Improvements
The harsh winter has exposed gaps in the region’s infrastructure:
- Heating Solutions: There is a need for government-subsidized heating systems to ensure homes remain warm.
- Water Supply: Insulating water pipelines and installing underground systems could prevent freezing.
- Emergency Services: Improving road maintenance and providing better equipment for snow removal can ensure smoother transportation.
Looking Ahead: Preparing for Future Winters
As global weather patterns shift, extreme winters like this one may become more common. A proactive approach is essential:
- Government Initiatives: Authorities must focus on improving power supply, providing emergency shelters, and enhancing infrastructure.
- Community Awareness: Educating residents on how to handle extreme cold can reduce risks and improve overall resilience.
Bottom-Line: Weathering the Winter Storm
The record-breaking cold in Srinagar is a stark reminder of nature’s unpredictability. While the beauty of a frozen Dal Lake and snow-covered peaks is undeniable, the challenges faced by residents highlight the need for better preparation and support. By combining traditional wisdom with modern solutions, Kashmir can ensure its people thrive even in the harshest winters.
