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National Highway closure triggers price hike in Kashmir

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: The week-long closure of the Srinagar–Jammu National Highway has not only crippled fruit trade but also triggered a steep rise in the prices of vegetables, poultry and other essentials across the valley, leaving the locals struggling with inflated prices of essentials.

Locals in several areas across the valley, informed KNO that both imported and locally cultivated vegetables are being sold at exorbitant rates. “We used to buy haakh (collard greens) at Rs 50, now it costs between Rs 80–90. Tomatoes and beans are also being sold at nearly double the usual price,” said Mohammed Latief, a resident of Sopore.

Similarly, in Baramulla, Bandipora and Srinagar markets, the chicken prices have shot up from Rs 125 per kilogram to Rs 190, while the cost of eggs has also climbed steeply. “How will poor families manage? We are paying Rs 190 for chicken and still the quality is not fresh. This is exploitation in the name of highway closure,” complained Aadil Firdous, a Baramulla resident.

Vendors, however, attribute the surge to supply shortages. “Supplies are not reaching on time and what little arrives comes at higher rates. We cannot sell at losses”, said a vegetable seller in Srinagar.

Taking cognisance of the issue, the authorities in Baramulla said market checking squads have been activated to ensure genuine pricing. “Dealers have been strictly warned against overcharging. Anyone found violating the norms will face strict action,” an official said.

Residents, however, insisted that mere announcements won’t suffice. “There should be daily checks across all markets; otherwise consumers will continue to suffer.”

It is noteworthy that the Srinagar–Jammu National Highway, the Valley’s only all-weather road link with the rest of the country, has remained blocked for nearly a week due to continuous landslides and shooting stones triggered by heavy rainfall in Ramban and adjoining stretches. (KNO)

Punjab Police bust JeM module; 3 J&K residents held on abduction, murder charges of cab driver

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: In a major breakthrough, the Punjab Police have busted a terror module linked to Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and apprehended three persons from Jammu & Kashmir in connection with the abduction and murder of a cab driver in Mohali.

Officials told KNO that the case came to light after cab driver Anil Kumar, a resident of Nayagaon, went missing when his vehicle was forcibly snatched by unidentified assailants. A case was immediately registered, and multiple police teams swung into action.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that three individuals from Jammu & Kashmir had hired the cab from Kharar. Soon after, the driver’s mobile phones were found switched off, raising suspicion. Acting with speed and precision, police managed to track down and arrest all three accused,” said an official.

He said, “The snatched vehicle and a .32 bore pistol used in the crime were recovered. During interrogation, the accused admitted to having fatally shot the driver following an altercation and later disposing of his body in the Mohali area.”

He said that the intensive search operations are currently underway to locate the mortal remains.

The official identified one of the accused, Sahil Bashir, as a wanted individual in a case registered under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and Arms Act at PS Qalamabad, Handwara, J&K. “His brother, Aijaz Ahmad, had earlier been arrested with a cache of weapons and materials linked to JeM. Both brothers are identified as Over Ground Workers (OGWs) of the terror outfit,” he added.

“Dedicated Punjab Police teams are pursuing further investigations to expose the wider network and ensure that such anti-national activities find no space on Punjab’s soil,” the official added. (KNO)

Avoid travelling on Srinagar-Jammu Highway till weather improves: IGP Traffic tells commuters

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Inspector General of Police (IGP) Traffic, M Suleman Chaudhary on Tuesday advised people to avoid traveling on the Jammu-Srinagar and Doda-Kishtwar highways, as incessant rains have triggered fresh landslides, forcing closure of these vital road links.

IGP Chaudhary while talking to KNO said, “The highway had been reopened partially over the past two days to facilitate the movement of trucks carrying essentials to the Valley, the situation worsened on Tuesday morning.”

He said, “Our priority was to allow trucks carrying essential supplies to the Valley. But since this morning, no work could be taken up for restoration as continuous landslides are hampering clearance operations.”

Traffic movement has remained suspended, leaving hundreds of vehicles stranded. The IGP urged commuters to avoid unnecessary travel and to confirm the status of the road before embarking on any journey.

On the issue of fruit transportation, IGP Chaudhary clarified that trucks with more than six tyres are not being allowed to ply on Mughal Road. “We have already advised truckers. Over the past two to three days, more than 1,500 fruit-laden trucks were allowed to move towards Jammu. Currently, there are about 1,500 to 1,600 trucks stranded at Qazigund, though very few of them are carrying fruit,” he said.

The IGP Traffic assured that efforts are underway to restore connectivity, but added that the safety of travellers remains the top priority and they should avoid embarking on any journey till the restoration works are completed. (KNO)

‘Melting glaciers threaten Chenab region’

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: The sudden shifts in water volume due to rapid melting of glaciers or lake outbursts can lead to devastating floods in the areas around the river Chenab, reveals a risk assessment of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF) Kishtwar.

The risk assessment, the risk of GLOFs in Kishtwar, arises from the combination of natural factors and climatic conditions that influence glacial lakes’ behaviour.

According to KNO, the risk assessment states that the components form the basis of the GLOF risk assessment for the region include glacial retreat and lake formation, moraine dam stability, seismic-activity-and landslides and hydrological changes,

“The glaciers in the Kishtwar Himalayas are retreating at an accelerated pace due to rising temperatures, leading to the creation of new glacial lakes. Existing lakes are also expanding, increasing the water volume held behind unstable moraine dams,” it reads.

It also states that the lakes such as Mundiksar Lake and Hangu Lake, both classified as high-risk, are prime examples of expanding lakes in this region. This expansion heightens the potential for catastrophic dam failure.

The document further states that many glacial lakes are formed behind moraine dams, which consist of unconsolidated glacial debris. These natural dams are prone to failure due to their unstable structure.

“Factors such as increased water pressure from lake expansion, earthquakes, or heavy rainfall can lead to sudden breaches, causing GLOFs. Lakes like Patla Pani Lake categorized as moderate-risk, are also susceptible to GLOFs if their moraine dams fail,” it reads.

It also reads that the steep terrain of the region exacerbates the risks associated with GLOFs, as floodwaters can travel swiftly through narrow valleys, causing widespread damage downstream.

“The Chenab river, fed by glaciers and glacial lakes, is sensitive to changes in the region’s hydrology. As lakes expand, there is an increased risk of sudden outflows, which could impact the river’s course and flood surrounding areas,” it reads.

It also states that “The changes in the water balance of these glacial lakes are continuously monitored, but sudden shifts in water volume due to rapid melting or lake outbursts could lead to devastating floods.”

The report states that a comprehensive risk assessment and mitigation plan is critical to safeguard the lives, property, and infrastructure of downstream communities in Kishtwar.

It states that to minimize the impact of GLOF events a regular-monitoring-and, early warning-systems need to be put in place. “Continuous monitoring of high-risk glacial lakes is critical for early detection of any significant changes in water volume or dam stability. Establishment of Early Warning Systems (EWS) should include collaboration with the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) to predict weather conditions that could trigger GLOFs. These systems will enable authorities to issue timely alerts to vulnerable communities and ensure evacuation measures are in place,” the report states.

“In cases where glacial lakes pose an imminent threat, engineering interventions should be considered. These include: -Controlled drainage of high-risk lakes to reduce the pressure on moraine dams. This can be done by creating artificial channels or tunnels to release excess water in a controlled manner. -Reinforcement of moraine dams using structural materials to stabilize them and prevent collapse. Where feasible, geotechnical studies should be conducted to assess dam stability and determine the most effective reinforcement methods.”

The report suggests: “The DDMA in collaboration with all the stake holders should conduct a comprehensive risk mapping of the region to identify areas most vulnerable to GLOF events. This should include detailed assessments of downstream communities, critical infrastructure (such as roads, bridges, and power plants), and agricultural areas that could be affected by floodwaters. Areas identified as high-risk should be prioritized for disaster preparedness measures, including the creation of buffer zones and evacuation routes.”

“Local communities in Kishtwar must be educated about the risks of GLOFs and trained in emergency response. Regular awareness campaigns should be conducted to inform residents about warning signs of GLOFs, evacuation procedures, and how to respond during a flood event or other events caused by GLOF(s),” it adds. (KNO)

Flood threat looms as water level increases in rivers across Jammu

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: In a week, the water bodies across Jammu have once again swelled, crossing the alarm mark at multiple places, prompting authorities to issue an advisory urging people to stay away from vulnerable spots. However, a teenage boy lost his life after being struck by lightning in Kokernag area of south Kashmir’s Anantnag district.

According to details obtained by KNO, the Jammu region has witnessed extreme weather conditions since August 14, 2025, leading to the loss of over 100 lives, including 65 in the Kishtwar cloudburst incident and 35 in landslides along the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi (SMVD) route.

One more life was lost in a natural calamity in Anantnag district today. A 16-year-old boy lost his life after being struck by lightning in Kokernag.

Officials informed that Dilawar Ahmad Bhokad (16), son of Mohammad Sardar Bhokad, a resident of Soin Wangam, Kokernag, was hit by lightning at Nawkhan near Margan Top, resulting in his on-the-spot death.

Meanwhile, as moderate to heavy rainfall was witnessed in the Jammu region from late Monday evening, water bodies in Udhampur, Kathua, Samba, and other places saw an unprecedented rise, leading to flood threats in the Jammu region again. The water level in Kashmir’s water bodies was flowing well below the flood alert mark at the time the report was last filed.

The details indicate that the water level crossed the flood alert mark today, with the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) issuing an urgent advisory, advising residents to stay away from the banks of the River Tawi and other swollen rivers in the Jammu region.

Heavy rainfall over the past 24 hours has triggered a critical flood situation across Jammu, with the River Tawi, Ujh, Basanter, Chenab, and Ravi rivers breaching alert and danger levels, prompting heightened vigilance from authorities.

Udhampur recorded the highest precipitation till this morning, with the figures revealing a total of 60.4 mm of rainfall at the station. Rajouri recorded a rainfall of 56.4 mm till this morning.

Batote station witnessed a rainfall of 55.1 mm since morning till evening, while 17.6 mm rainfall was recorded at the station till this morning.

Bhaderwah saw a rainfall of 42.6 mm since morning, while Katra recorded 32.7 mm till 5:30 PM. The data reveals that Jammu recorded a precipitation of 11.4 mm since morning and 17.8 mm till this morning.

In Srinagar, the summer capital of the region, the highest rainfall of 15.4 mm was recorded since this morning, followed by 13.2 mm in Kokernag.

During the fresh wet spell, Jammu city’s River Tawi experienced a rapid rise in water levels, approaching the danger mark.

The SDRF reported that the Tawi has crossed the flood alert level, raising concerns about potential inundation in low-lying areas.

The District Magistrate of Jammu has reiterated warnings for residents to avoid the riverbanks, saying there is an imminent risk of flooding. A recent post on X by the District Magistrate said, “Citizens of Jammu are requested to stay away from Tawi River banks. The water levels may reach the danger mark within a short period of time.”

The Tawi’s rising levels follow a similar trend observed in Udhampur, where the river had previously crossed the evacuation level of 24.975 ft on August 26, 2025, surpassing both danger and evacuation thresholds. Authorities warn that continued rainfall could push the Tawi in Jammu city past the danger mark in the coming hours, potentially leading to evacuations in vulnerable areas.

Kathua’s Ujh River at Panjtirthi has also crossed the flood alert level, with a recorded discharge of 59,750 cusecs, surpassing the alert threshold of 48,000 cusecs. While it remains below the danger level of 88,000 cusecs, officials are closely monitoring the situation due to the steady upward trend.

Similarly, the Ravi River in Kathua has breached its flood alert level, with the water level recorded at 524.97 meters above mean sea level (MSL), exceeding the alert level of 523 meters.

The danger level for the Ravi stands at 527.91 meters, and authorities have warned that further increases could lead to severe flooding in villages such as Bagthali, Massos Pur, Keerian Gandial, Barni, Dhanna, Dhanore, Karyali, and adjoining areas.

The SDRF, alongside local disaster management teams, have been placed on high alert across Jammu, Kathua, and Samba districts.

Meanwhile, the weatherman here has predicted heavy rainfall until tomorrow, saying that generally cloudy weather is expected with one or two spells of light to moderate rain and thunder at many places during the daytime, with the possibility of heavy to very heavy rain over Kathua, Jammu, Udhampur, and Reasi, along with moderate to heavy rainfall over Doda, Samba, Rajouri, Poonch, Ramban, Kishtwar, Anantnag, and Kulgam, mainly towards late tonight and early tomorrow, continuing till late afternoon.

Director Meteorological Department (MeT), Dr Mukhtar Ahmad, said that from September 4 to 7, a brief spell of rain and thunder is expected at a few places. From September 8 to 11, a spell of moderate rain is expected over a few districts of Jammu division during the night of September 8 and the 9th, with improvement thereafter until the 11th evening.

The fresh weather forecast has raised fears of flash floods and further inundation. Residents in flood-prone and low-lying areas are urged to remain indoors, avoid riverbanks, and keep emergency supplies ready.

In its advisory, the MeT has stated that there is a possibility of heavy to very heavy rain in a few districts, as well as the possibility of cloudbursts, flash floods, landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones at many vulnerable places.

It said that a rise in water levels in rivers is expected and urged people to stay away from water bodies, nallas, river embankments, and loose structures. Besides, the public has been advised to stay alert and updated.

Moreover, the Indian Army and other disaster response teams are actively engaged in rescue and evacuation operations, particularly in areas affected by overflowing rivers.

It is worth mentioning here that the government has closed all educational institutions and non-essential offices in Jammu to ensure public safety.

Railway services have also been disrupted, with 18 trains cancelled due to soil erosion and flash floods near the Chakki River, and traffic between Jammu Tawi and Katra has been suspended. (KNO)

Admin on high alert, but water level below danger mark: DC Srinagar

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Akshay Labroo on Tuesday said the administration is on high alert for the next 15-30 days in view of the weather forecast.

Speaking with reporters, the Deputy Commissioner urged people to strictly adhere to advisories being issued from time-to-time.

“We are on high alert and people must follow our advisories. Yesterday, we issued one regarding the possibility of gusty winds and cautioned residents to stay away from electric cables and poles,” he said.

He added that the administration will continue to issue weather advisories during this period to ensure public safety. “As of now, the water level in Jhelum and other water bodies is much below the danger mark,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Jammu and Kashmir Disaster Management Authority (JKUTDMA) has issued a weather alert, forecasting moderate to heavy rainfall in many places across Jammu, Kathua, Rajouri, Poonch, Reasi, Doda, Ramban, Kishtwar, Samba, and Udhampur districts towards early morning to forenoon of September 2.

The advisory also warned of the possibility of cloudbursts, flash floods, and landslides at a few vulnerable locations, urging people to remain alert and dial 112 in case of emergencies. (KNO)

3500 fishes found dead after ‘poisoning’ at Shopian fish farm

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: In a shocking incident, unknown persons allegedly poisoned a fish farm in south Kashmir’s Shopian district during the night, leading to the death of thousands of fishes and causing heavy financial loss to the owner.

The incident took place at village Ganowpora Balpora where a private fish farm run by Bilal Ahmad Lone was targeted. Reports said that miscreants mixed poison in the water, resulting in the death of nearly 3,500 fishes.

Officials said the loss has been estimated at around four lakh rupees. The incident has triggered anger among locals who termed it as an act of sabotage and demanded stern action against the culprits.

Police have taken cognizance of the matter and further investigation has been initiated. (KNT)

Welcome to Srinagar Smart City where few hours of rain choke roads

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Heavy showers of rain on Monday evening, lasting only a few hours, left Srinagar’s Residency Road, Dal Gate and other important stretches waterlogged, exposing poor drainage in the City’s commercial hub despite ongoing Smart City projects.

The sudden downpour submerged large portions of the road, causing severe inconvenience to commuters and shopkeepers.

As per details available with KNO, videos and pictures from Dal Gate and other areas showed vehicles wading through knee-deep water with pedestrians forced to walk along inundated pavements.

The chaos sparked strong criticism from locals, who questioned the effectiveness of the Smart City drainage system.

“This is supposed to be the showcase of Srinagar Smart City, yet every spell of rain turns it into a water city,” said Imtiyaz Ahmad, a shopkeeper near Dal Gate, while pointing to the water outside his shop. “If this is a Smart City, where is the smart drainage?”

Another commuter expressed frustration while pushing his scooter through the flooded stretch. “We hear crores are being spent in the name of Smart City, but even a small shower exposes the reality. Instead of ease, it only creates trouble for us.”

The waterlogging also triggered traffic jams, with many vehicles breaking down midway. Auto drivers and cab operators said they were the worst hit.

“It is not safe to drive in such water. Engines stop working and passengers refuse to board,” said Mohammad Yaseen, an auto-rickshaw driver at Dal Gate.

Meanwhile, the Meteorological (MeT) Centre Srinagar issued a fresh advisory, warning of more intense showers in the region. “A system is approaching Srinagar. Heavy and intense showers accompanied with thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds are expected over many parts of Srinagar, Ganderbal and Budgam,” the advisory read.

It also urged people to stay away from electric poles, old trees and loose structures, and advised suspension of shikara riding and boating activities in all water bodies, including Dal Lake.

Moreover, residents urged authorities to take immediate measures to clear the choked drains and prevent further waterlogging. “The rains are not in our control, but drainage surely is. If this is the condition after one evening’s rain, what will happen if it rains for days?” asked another resident. (KNO)

Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra remains suspended amid bad weather

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: The Mata Vaishno Devi Yatra remained suspended for the eighth consecutive day on Tuesday due to inclement weather conditions in the region.

The SMVD Shrine Board has already announced that all bookings — including helicopter services and accommodation — have been cancelled with a 100 percent refund until the pilgrimage resumes.

It may be recalled that on August 27, a devastating landslide near Inderprastha Bhojnalaya at Adhkuwari — midway on the 12-kilometre trek from Katra to the holy shrine — claimed over 30 lives and left 20 others injured.

In the aftermath of the tragedy, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha ordered the constitution of a high-level three-member committee to investigate the causes of the landslide and recommend preventive measures.

Officials said that the resumption of the yatra will depend on weather conditions.

Meanwhile, devotees across the country who had planned their pilgrimage have been advised to wait for further announcements from the Shrine Board. (KINS)

No vehicular movement on Jammu–Srinagar highway due to fresh rains; Mughal road open

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Continuous heavy rainfall in Banihal and adjoining sectors on Tuesday once again disrupted movement along the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway, with authorities confirming that vehicular traffic so far has been suspended for safety reasons.

Reports of minor landslides and shooting stones from several stretches have heightened concerns over commuter safety.

Traffic Police officials told KINS that the highway, which was partially restored yesterday after days of closure, could not be opened today due to persistent rainfall.

“Our priority is the safety of travelers. With heavy rainfall, we cannot risk allowing traffic movement at this stage,” a senior traffic police officer said.

The officer further advised commuters not to travel on the route without confirming the latest status. “We urge people to avoid unnecessary travel and check official updates before starting their journey. The situation is being closely monitored, and decisions will be taken keeping public safety in mind,” the officer added.

However, the officer clarified that traffic is moving smoothly on the Mughal Road as per the advisory issued.

The 250-km Jammu–Srinagar National Highway is the only all-weather road linking Kashmir Valley with the rest of the country, and frequent closures due to rains and landslides disrupt essential supplies.

Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department has predicted more spells of rain in the coming hours, keeping officials and restoration teams on high alert. (KINS)

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