Srinagar:
Most parts of the Kashmir Valley, including Srinagar, on Friday received fresh snowfall, leading to closure of the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway.
The snowfall began late Thursday evening and by this morning the entire Valley had turned white, making the Valley more picturesque.
However, the snowfall has led to closure of the 294-km Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, the only road link between Kashmir and rest of the country.
To avoid any inconvenience to residents as well as tourists, efforts to clear the snow are underway.
"Efforts are being made by Chief Engineer, Project Beacon, to clear the snow and re-open the road, if weather improves," coordinator of Natural Disaster Management Cell Aamir said.
Even residents of Himachal Pradesh woke up to a to a white sheet of snow with its capital Shimla receiving light snowfall, while nearby places like Kufri and Narkanda experienced moderate snowfall.
Another popular tourist resort Manali in Kullu district was wrapped up in white blanket. Manali received moderate snow.
Anticipating more rainfall and snowfall in Himachal Pradesh due to western disturbances in the region, Met officials said, "high-altitude areas of Lahaul and Spiti, Kullu, Kinnaur, Chamba, Mandi, Sirmaur and Shimla districts have been experiencing moderate to heavy snow since late Wednesday."
(With inputs from Agencies)