Chillai-Kalan: LG admin undertakes preemptive measures for public safety

SRINAGAR, DEC 20: With the advent of Chillai-Kalan, the harshest phase of winter in the Kashmir Valley, the Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha-led administration has started the initiation of proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of residents in the region.
As the 40-day period begins today, the administration is taking preemptive steps to address the challenges posed by the extreme cold.

Chillai-Kalan, known for its bone-chilling temperatures and subzero conditions, started on December 21, prompting the LG administration to deploy a comprehensive strategy to mitigate potential hardships faced by the residents.
A top official said that the administration, under the guidance of the Lieutenant Governor, has closely monitored weather forecasts, anticipating a prolonged period of dry and cold weather during Chillai-Kalan. Recognizing the critical need to safeguard against the biting cold, the administration has urged residents especially those living in hilly areas to stock up on essential supplies
The traditional Kangri, an earthen fire pot covered with a wicker casing, which plays a vital role in combating the winter cold, is being made readily available to residents by the vendors.
In addition to preparing the populace for the impending chill, the LG administration has bolstered emergency response mechanisms to address any unforeseen circumstances that may arise during Chillai-Kalan.
Medical facilities, emergency shelters, and essential services are being closely monitored to ensure they remain fully operational.
Residents are being advised to take precautions, stay informed about weather updates, and report emergencies promptly.
The LG administration, with a commitment to proactive governance, aims to navigate the harsh Chillai-Kalan period with resilience and efficiency, ensuring the well-being of all residents in the region.
The weather in the Kashmir Valley during Chillai-Kalan is characterized by extremely cold conditions, with minimum temperatures consistently below freezing point. The likelihood of substantial and prolonged snowfall is highest during these 40 days, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland.
On Tuesday night, the summer capital of Kashmir, Srinagar, recorded a minimum temperature of 4.4 degrees Celsius, a dip from the previous night’s 3.7 degrees Celsius. Pahalgam, in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district, experienced a low of minus 6.3 degrees Celsius.
Visuals from Srinagar and other districts depict the local population grappling with cold wave-like conditions as the mercury hovers near the freezing point.
The renowned ski resort in Baramulla’s Gulmarg registered a minimum temperature of minus 4.4 degrees Celsius. Other locations, including Qazigund, Kokernag, and Kupwara, reported minimum temperatures ranging from minus 3.3 to minus 4 degrees Celsius.
The weather department has forecasted continued dry weather conditions in the valley for the next few days, with the minimum temperature expected to drop further.