19 flights cancelled, major power outage
Fayaz Bukhari
Srinagar, Mar 28: The howling overnight gale caused widespread damage across Kashmir leading to power outages and cancellation of 19 flights from Srinagar Airport.
Many trees were uprooted, boundary walls damaged and roofs of several houses were blown away due to gale that started last night and continued till this evening across Kashmir. The gale disrupted normal life across Kashmir with its maximum impact in Srinagar and north Kashmir.
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The winds caused damage in several parts of Kashmir, including Srinagar, Ganderbal, and Budgam. In Srinagar city, a vehicle was completely destroyed near the Tourist Reception Centre (TRC) as a tree fell on it due to strong winds.
In Ganderbal, Sopore and Srinagar, strong winds damaged rooftops and outdoor structures. In Dal lake tourists and other people were rescued.
Several power lines were damaged in Srinagar leading to power outages in multiple areas last night.
A Power Development Department (PDD) official said that the department has restored over 90 percent electricity in the affected areas. “We have almost restored 90 percent of electricity and work is going to restore the power in remaining areas,” he said.
He said that the electricity lines were badly damaged because of the gusty winds. The official said that the huge damage was caused in many areas of Southern and Central Kashmir.
“We were all out on the ground to restore the electricity in the affected areas,” the official said.
Chief Engineer, Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL), Aaquib S W Deva said sudden windstorm has caused damage to power lines due to fallen trees and debris, affecting supply in several areas.
“KPDCL is working hard to restore power. We appreciate the patience of people and their understanding,” Deva added.
At least 19 flights were cancelled due to gale at Srinagar Airport. An official said that 15 arrivals and 14 departures of aircrafts were observed between 6:30 am and 7:40 pm today.
“The strong winds, with speeds reaching 17 knots and gusting up to 27 knots, affected smooth operations, resulting in multiple delays and inconvenience to passengers,” they added.
Director Meteorological department (MeT), Dr Mukhtar Ahmad said that the weather would remain generally dry till April 6.
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