Kashmir is currently gripped by an intense cold wave, with temperatures plummeting to record-breaking lows. This winter is proving to be one of the harshest in recent memory, impacting daily life, infrastructure, and the region’s delicate ecosystem. The 40-day period of intense cold, known locally as ‘Chillai Kalan’, has just begun, and the freezing temperatures are already causing widespread disruptions.
Record-Breaking Temperatures
Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, recently recorded its coldest December night in five decades, with temperatures dropping to a bone-chilling -8.5 degrees Celsius. This is the coldest December night the city has experienced since 1974 and the third coldest since records began in 1891. The all-time record for the lowest December temperature in Srinagar is -12.8 degrees Celsius, recorded on December 13, 1934.
Other parts of the Kashmir Valley are also experiencing extreme temperatures. Konibal recorded the lowest temperature in the valley at -10.5 degrees Celsius. Popular tourist destinations like Pahalgam and Gulmarg have also seen temperatures plummet to -8.6 degrees Celsius and -6.2 degrees Celsius, respectively.
Chillai Kalan: The Harsh Winter Period
‘Chillai Kalan’ is a Persian term that translates to ‘major cold’. It is the 40-day period of harshest winter in Kashmir, typically beginning around December 21st and lasting until January 31st. During this time, the region experiences the most severe cold waves, with temperatures often dropping well below freezing point.
This period is characterized by:
- Intense cold: Temperatures remain consistently low, with frequent sub-zero nights.
- Heavy snowfall: While not always continuous, heavy snowfall is common during Chillai Kalan, adding to the cold and causing disruptions.
- Frozen water bodies: Rivers, lakes, and even parts of the famous Dal Lake freeze over during this period.
- Disruptions to daily life: The extreme cold and snowfall can disrupt transportation, power supply, and water supply, making daily life challenging for residents.
Impact of the Cold Wave
The intense cold wave is having a significant impact on various aspects of life in Kashmir:
- Health: The extreme cold can lead to various health issues, particularly for the elderly, children, and those with chronic illnesses. Common cold, cough, respiratory infections, and hypothermia are some of the health risks associated with such low temperatures.
- Infrastructure: Frozen water pipes and disruptions to power supply are common during Chillai Kalan. The heavy snowfall can also cause damage to infrastructure and disrupt transportation networks.
- Economy: The cold wave can affect various economic activities, including tourism, agriculture, and trade.
- Daily life: People are forced to stay indoors for longer periods, and daily routines are disrupted due to the extreme weather conditions.
Precautions and Preparations
The local administration and residents are taking various measures to cope with the extreme cold:
- Heating arrangements: People are using traditional methods like Kangris (fire pots) and Bukharies (wood stoves) to keep warm.
- Warm clothing: Wearing multiple layers of warm clothing, including woolen garments, is essential to protect against the cold.
- Healthcare facilities: Hospitals and healthcare centers are prepared to handle cold-related illnesses.
- Snow clearance: Authorities are working to clear snow from roads and ensure smooth transportation.
- Essential supplies: People are stocking up on essential supplies, including food, fuel, and medicines.
Beyond Chillai Kalan
Even after the end of Chillai Kalan on January 31st, the cold wave conditions are expected to continue in Kashmir. This is because the region experiences two more cold periods:
- Chillai Khurd (small cold): This is a 20-day period that follows Chillai Kalan, lasting from January 31st to February 19th.
- Chillai Bachha (baby cold): This is a 10-day period that follows Chillai Khurd, lasting from February 20th to March 1st.
While these periods are generally less intense than Chillai Kalan, they still bring cold temperatures and occasional snowfall.
A Test of Resilience
The people of Kashmir are known for their resilience in the face of harsh weather conditions. They have adapted to the cold over centuries and have developed various coping mechanisms. However, this year’s extreme cold wave is testing their resilience once again.
The local administration and various organizations are working to provide relief and support to the affected population. It is crucial to ensure that vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, the poor, and the homeless, receive adequate support during this challenging time.
Looking Ahead
The current cold wave in Kashmir serves as a reminder of the power of nature and the challenges posed by extreme weather events. It also highlights the importance of preparedness, resilience, and community support in coping with such events.
As the region continues to grapple with the freezing temperatures, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of the people of Kashmir.
