Snowfall brings relief to farmers, tourism stakeholders

Aatif Qayoom
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30 Jan 2026

Srinagar, Jan 30: The recent snowfall across Kashmir has brought relief to farmers and tourism operators after months of unusual dryness, with experts saying the snow cover will play a key role in restoring water reserves and supporting the horticulture sector. Higher reaches of the valley received steady snowfall recently, while plains recorded light to moderate accumulation. The change in weather has improved soil moisture and recharged streams that feed irrigation networks used by apple orchards. Growers say the timing is critical as orchards prepare for the next growth cycle. “This snowfall has come as a blessing,” said Ghulam Nabi, an apple grower from Shopian. “We were worried because last year we saw a big rain deficiency. The soil had turned dry and production was affected. Snow means water security for the coming months.” Officials in the horticulture department say prolonged dry spells over the past season had raised concern about declining groundwater levels. Snow acts as a natural reservoir in the valley. As it melts gradually, it feeds springs, rivers, and irrigation canals that sustain orchards through spring and summer. A senior meteorological official said the valley had recorded below normal precipitation in the previous season. “We faced a significant rainfall shortfall last year. This snowfall will help balance that deficit to some extent and improve water availability,” the official said. Tourism stakeholders also see the snowfall as a turning point. Winter tourism had slowed due to lack of snow in early season weeks. Hotel owners and tour operators now report a spike in bookings, especially for destinations like Gulmarg and Pahalgam, where visitors seek snow activities. “This is the snowfall tourists were waiting for,” said a hotel manager in Gulmarg. “Enquiries have increased sharply in just two days. Good snow cover means a longer and stronger winter season for us.” Environmental observers add that consistent winter snowfall remains essential for the valley’s fragile ecosystem. Adequate snow not only supports horticulture and tourism, but also stabilizes temperatures and protects glaciers that feed major rivers. For growers and businesses alike, the white blanket now covering Kashmir has restored cautious optimism after a year marked by climatic uncertainty.