Srinagar, In the midst of the harsh winter period known as Chillai Kalan, Srinagar’s renowned Dal Lake has partially frozen over. The region of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) is experiencing a significant drop in temperatures, impacting daily life and local activities.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Srinagar has been facing extremely cold weather, with night temperatures plummeting to a bone-chilling minus 4.8°C. This severe cold has led to the partial freezing of Dal Lake, a major tourist attraction and vital component of the city’s cultural and economic life. The freezing conditions have notably affected Shikara owners, who are struggling to navigate their boats through the icy waters. Each morning, they face the formidable task of breaking through the frozen surface to create navigable paths for their boats.
Chillai Kalan, which began on December 21, is the coldest and most challenging part of winter in the region, lasting for 40 days until January 31. This period is known for its extreme cold and is often marked by heavy snowfall, leading to disruptions in normal life and hardships for the residents. The freezing of Dal Lake is a visual testament to the intensity of the winter in IIOJK, affecting not just the natural landscape but also the livelihoods of those dependent on the lake’s tourism and transportation services.