Srinagar, Residents of Machil valley in the upper reaches of north Kashmir’s Kupwara district have been facing severe isolation and distress for the past eight days. Heavy snowfall has disconnected the area from the district headquarters, significantly impacting daily life and creating acute shortages of food and essential items.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the valley has been covered with more than four feet of snow, making even the inner roads within the region impassable. The main road linking the valley to Kupwara has been closed, further exacerbating the situation for the local population. The accumulated snow has rendered roads unusable, preventing residents from moving freely and accessing necessary supplies and healthcare services.

Muhammad Habibullah, a former Sarpanch of the area, voiced the community’s struggles, highlighting the urgent need for food, essentials, and medical facilities. The inhabitants, living in a remote and now cut-off location, are calling on authorities to prioritize road clearance efforts. Such actions would enable them to move about and restock on essential supplies.

The situation in Machil valley underscores the challenges faced by remote areas during severe winter conditions, where heavy snowfall can lead to significant disruptions in daily life and access to basic services. The residents’ plea for assistance reflects the critical need for prompt and efficient snow clearance operations to restore connectivity and support the affected communities.