Ishtiyaq Ahmad
Srinagar, Jan 13 (KNS): In an unexpected twist, tourists exploring the scenic wonders of Sonamarg, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam in Kashmir are expressing dismay over the persistent absence of snowfall in these renowned destinations. Despite their natural allure, the prolonged dry spell is prompting many visitors to rethink their plans, with a growing number opting for the snowy haven of Manali instead.
The iconic winter landscapes of tourist hotspots like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg, typically blanketed in pristine white, are currently devoid of their usual snowy charm.
News agency KNS reported that local businesses, heavily reliant on winter tourism, are grappling with the repercussions as travelers search for alternative locations to satisfy their snow-filled holiday expectations.
Traditionally drawing tourists seeking a winter wonderland experience, the unusual scarcity of snow has left many scrambling to find alternative destinations. Manali, nestled in Himachal Pradesh, is witnessing a surge in bookings as disappointed travelers redirect their plans in pursuit of snowy landscapes and winter adventures.
The hill station boasts a range of winter activities, from skiing and snowboarding to picturesque snow-covered landscapes, making it an appealing alternative for those yearning for the quintessential winter getaway.
As Sonamarg contends with the dry spell, local authorities are closely monitoring the situation, hoping for a weather shift to salvage the winter tourism season. Meanwhile, in Manali, businesses are gearing up to welcome an influx of tourists seeking a snow-filled escape, turning the unexpected turn of events into a boon for the Himachal Pradesh region.
It is noteworthy that on Friday, amidst concerns over the prolonged dry conditions in the Kashmir Valley, residents gathered at the historic Jamia Masjid in Srinagar to perform a special prayer known as Namaz-e-Istiqsa.
This prayer seeks divine intervention to alleviate the scarcity of rainfall, particularly concerning for the agricultural sector and the overall environmental balance in the region.
The collective prayer at Jamia Masjid mirrors the shared worry and hope of local residents grappling with the prolonged arid conditions. This special prayer underscores the community's reliance on faith and tradition during challenging times, as they unite in their plea for rain to replenish water sources, nurture the land, and mitigate the impact of the extended dry period on livelihoods.
As the echoes of Namaz-e-Istiqsa resonate through the historic mosque, it symbolizes a collective appeal for nature's mercy to bring an end to the prolonged drought affecting the Kashmir Valley.(KNS)