Excelsior Correspondent
KARGIL, Jan 11: The harsh winter in Kargil has intensified, plunging the region into freezing conditions, with temperature dropping to a bone-chilling -24.9°C in Drass, the second coldest inhabited place in the world.
In Kargil town, the mercury has hit -14.5°C, freezing water bodies and bringing everyday life to a near standstill.
The ongoing cold spell, marked by minimal snowfall, has exacerbated the miseries of residents. Water sources are frozen solid, leaving households struggling for essential water supply. Vegetables in markets have frozen entirely, forcing people to rely on firewood and heaters for warmth and survival. Streets remain deserted as the biting cold forces residents to stay indoors, huddled around fires for relief.
The coldest month in the Purig calendar, Mamani, traditionally known for its extreme temperatures, has added to the woes. While Mamani ends on January 21, offering hope for milder conditions, the dry spell and lack of substantial snowfall remain pressing concerns for the future. Farmers and locals worry about water shortages in the upcoming agricultural season.
Adding to the challenges, the National Highway 1 (NH-1) has been temporarily closed for two days due to icy conditions at Zojila Pass and essential maintenance work, further isolating the region and disrupting the supply of goods.
Despite the hardships, the people of Kargil continue to demonstrate resilience. The prevailing cold conditions are seen as an advantage for hosting the 4th LG Cup Ice Hockey Tournament, a much-needed distraction and source of pride for the community.
The Meteorological Department has forecasted snowfall on January 15 and 16, providing a glimmer of hope for relief. However, for now, the people of Kargil continue to endure one of the harshest winters, waiting for nature’s reprieve.
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