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Kashmir Xpress News, Srinagar (2025)

01/01/2025

USBRL project: Final CRS inspection on Katra-Reasi Rail Link on Jan 7, 8

Jammu to get Railway Division status on Jan 6; PM Modi to inaugurate; 3 new trains, including Vande Bharat, to run between SVDK to Srinagar Rly Station

Umaisar Gull Ganie

Srinagar, Jan 01 (KNO): The Commissioner of Railway Safety (CRS) is set to conduct the final inspection of the Katra-Reasi section of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link on January 7 and 8, as part of the effort to complete the rail link from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, officials said.

Speaking with the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), Northern Railway’s Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) Himanshu Shekhar Upadhyaya said the CRS (Northern Circle) is expected to inspect the 16.501 km Katra-Reasi section under the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla New BG Rail Link Project before January 15.

The chief PRO said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will virtually inaugurate the Jammu Railway Division from New Delhi on January 6.

Sources in Northern Railways told KNO that after the inauguration of the Jammu Railway Division, the CRS will conduct the final inspection on January 7 and 8. Senior officials, including the CAO/USBRL, CBE, CSE, COM-G, CEGE from HQ, DRM/FZR, and other officers, will accompany the CRS during the inspection.

Indian Railways is set to introduce a new Vande Bharat train and two Mail/Express trains for the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. These trains will operate between Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra (SVDK) and Srinagar railway stations and will be maintained by the Northern Railway zone.

As per a communication from Northern Railways Vande Bharat Train will depart from Katra (SVDK) at 8:10 am. and arrive at Srinagar Railway Station at 11:20 am.; Mail/Express Train 1 will depart from Katra at 9:50 am. and arrive at Srinagar Railway Station at 1:10 pm. and Mail/Express Train 2 will depart from Katra at 3:00 pm. and arrive at Srinagar Railway Station at 6:20 pm.

The 17-km Katra-Reasi section's final phase, including the challenging T-33 tunnel, has been completed. The Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla rail project, initiated in 2005-06, includes several sections: the 118 km Qazigund-Baramulla section (2009), the 18 km Banihal-Qazigund (2013), and the 25 km Udhampur-Katra (2014). In February, a successful electric train trial run was held on the 40 km Banihal-Sangaldan track, and normal train operations are currently running on this section.

The railway line features 38 tunnels, including the T-49, India's longest at 12.75 km, and 927 bridges, including the world’s highest railway arch bridge over the Chenab River and the only cable-stayed rail bridge in India over the Anji River in Reasi—(KNO)

01/01/2025

4 JeM terrorist associates arrested in Tral: Police

Srinagar, Jan 01 (KNO): Security forces on Wednesday claimed to have arrested four terrorist associates of proscribed terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad in Tral.

According to a statement, issued to news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) they have been identified as Mudasir Ahmad Naik, Umar Nazir Sheikh, Inayat Firdous Rather, and Salman Nazir Lone--all residents of Tral

The statement reads that incriminating material was also recovered from their possession. "They were involved in providing logistics support and transportation of arms & ammunition to the active terrorists of Jaish-e-Mohammad in Tral and Awantipora areas," it reads.

It added that a case under relevant sections of law has been registered at police station Tral and further investigation is going on—(KNO)

31/12/2024

In 2024, Cyber Police Kashmir recovered Rs 4.72 crore from online fraudsters

Srinagar, Dec 31 (KNO): In 2024 the Cyber Police Kashmir Zone, Srinagar, set a new benchmark by recovering Rs 4.72 crore defrauded from victims of online scams.

In a statement issued, by the Cyber Police Kashmir, a copy of which lies with the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) said that the money was handed over to the rightful owners and the cyber criminals were dealt as per law. “This significant accomplishment underscores Cyber Police Kashmir’s dedication to combating cybercrime and safeguarding citizens from financial losses,” the statement reads.

The Cyber Police Kashmir Zone, Srinagar, according to the officials, registered 30 FIRs during the year, 10 of which were charge-sheeted and forwarded to the Courts for judicial determination.

“The unit also resolved 577 complaints registered on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (NCCRP) and addressed 1,700 other miscellaneous complaints, showcasing its commitment to delivering services and addressing public grievances,”reads the statement.

It further reads as action was taken against 1,833 fake SIM cards used in various online crimes, and 150 missing mobile phones, worth lakhs of rupees, were recovered and restored to their rightful owners.

“Alongside its operational success, the Cyber Police Kashmir Zone placed a strong emphasis on public awareness by organizing numerous workshops in educational institutions and government offices to educate citizens about emerging cyber threats and online safety practices,” the statement reads.

“These achievements highlight the Cyber Police’s comprehensive approach to tackling a wide range of cybercrimes, from financial fraud to the misuse of social media platforms. The Cyber Police remains steadfast in its mission to protect the digital well-being of citizens and foster a safer online environment for all,” the statement reads—(KNO)

31/12/2024

Srinagar Police has booked a notorious drug peddler namely Shakeel Ahmad Sheikh alias Shakeel Kano, son of Ghulam Ahmad Sheikh, resident of Pamposh Colony, Noorbagh Srinagar.

30/12/2024

Missing since 8 days, Sgr man found dead in Ramban

Srinagar, Dec 30 : A man, hailing from Central Kashmir’s Nowgam area of Srinagar, was found dead inside a Thar vehicle near Gadool, Ramban, on Monday.

An official told that the man from Srinagar, who had reportedly been missing since December 22, was found dead inside a Thar vehicle near Gandool, Ramban.

He said the body was spotted this afternoon, and police have arrived at the scene and took the body into their custody.

He was later identified as Umer Yaseen Shah, a resident of Railway Colony, Nowgam, Srinagar.

Meanwhile, police have taken cognizance of the incident—(KNO)

30/12/2024

Anantnag Police Attach Properties Worth ₹1 Crore in Major Crackdown on Narcotics Offenders

Srinagar, December 30 :(GNS) Police on Monday said that it have attached three properties of drug peddlers in South Kashmir’s Anantnag district.

In a handout to GNS, the police said that in a significant effort to curb the Drug menace and dismantle narcotics networks, Anantnag Police have attached properties valued at ₹1 crore under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. These actions demonstrate the district’s commitment to combating drug-related crimes and deterring offenders.

The details are at Nowshera, Srigufwar a single-storey residential house and one Kanal of land, valued at ₹20 lakhs, belonging to Bilal Ahmad Rather, son of Wali Mohammad Rather, resident of Nowshera, Srigufwara, have been attached. Bilal is implicated in FIR No. 57/2021 under Section 8/18 of the NDPS Act, linked to the recovery of a substantial quantity of narcotic substances.

At Sirhama, Srigufwara a residential house on a one-Kanal plot, worth ₹40 lakhs, belonging to Mohammad Ashraf Ganaie, son of Mohammad Ramzan Ganaie, resident of Sirhama, Srigufwara, has been seized. Ganaie is involved in FIR No. 99/2021 under the NDPS Act, related to the recovery of a significant quantity of contraband.

At Ainoo, Aishmuqam aresidential house valued at ₹40 lakhs, owned by Rouf Ahmad Nanda, son-in-law of Gull Mohammad Tantray, resident of Ainoo, Aishmuqam, has been attached. Nanda is implicated in FIR No. 34/2022 under Sections 8/15-29 of the NDPS Act.

The seized properties will remain under the custody of authorities until legal proceedings are finalized. These decisive actions aim to disrupt the financial infrastructure of drug trafficking networks and send a strong message to offenders.

Anantnag Police appeal to the Public to assist in the fight against drug trafficking by sharing any relevant information. Together, we can work towards creating a safer, drug-free society, reads the statement.(GNS)

30/12/2024

No New Year celebrations in J&K this year due to 7-day mourning over ex PM's death

Officials say winter carnival events in Pahalgam and Gulmarg to being after Jan 2

KNO Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 30 (KNO): There will be no celebration at any place on the occasion of New Year in Jammu and Kashmir due to 7-day mourning declared by the Union government over the death of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, official sources said.

Official sources told news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that due to declaration of 7-day national mourning over the death of former PM Manmohan Singh any of the departments in Jammu and Kashmir won't observe New Year celebrations this year.

They also said that the tourism department will celebrate events as part of winter carnival, starting on January 2, 2024 in Pahalgam.

"In mid January, we will celebrate Gulmarg winter carnival. National Tourism Day event will also be celebrated in Srinagar, while several events will also be held in Sonamarg, Doothapthri, Lolab and other places," sources said.

Former Prime Minister and Congress stalwart Dr Manmohan Singh died at the age of 92 at Delhi's AIIMS after being admitted there over age related health issues on Thursday last week.

Following his death, the Union government announced 7-day national mourning with national flag to fly at half mast, while official functions and celebrations also been postponed during this period—(KNO)

30/12/2024

𝙒𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙐𝙥𝙙𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙅&𝙆:30.12.24
𝙁𝙤𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙖𝙨𝙩
●30-31st Dec: Generally dry.
●Two western Disturbances (WD) in quick succession likely to affect J&K and adjoining areas from 1st January onwards.
●1-2nd Jan (Feeble WD):Generally cloudy with Light Snow at scattered places during 1st evening/night to 2nd morning.
● *3-6th Jan (Moderate WD):Generally cloudy with Light to moderate Rain (Plains of JMU)/Snow at many places of J&K with peak activity on 4th & 5th January.*
𝘼𝘿𝙑𝙄𝙎𝙊𝙍𝙔 ⚠
● Cold wave at isolated places during 30th & 31st Dec.
●In view of snowfall, sub freezing temp & icy conditions over roads (Plains/higher reaches), Tourists/travellers/Transporters are advised to follow Admin/Traffic advisory.
● *Possibility of heavy snow at isolated higher reaches during 4th & 5th Jan.*

MET CENTRE SRINAGAR

29/12/2024

Manzoor Bhat, Expresses Concern Over Kashmir Snowfall Crisis

Srinagar 29 Dec : BJP Senior leader Manzoor Bhat has expressed deep concern over the Kashmir snowfall crisis, criticizing the government's handling of the situation. The recent snowfall has caused widespread disruptions, blocking roads and leaving people struggling to cope ¹.

Bhat highlighted the government's lack of preparedness, stating that unlike previous years, this year's snowfall caught many off guard. He emphasized that the situation demands immediate attention and effective action to prevent further distress to the people of Kashmir.

Bhat said, "The way the videos are coming from villages on social media, it is evident that many people are deeply troubled. Their roads have not been cleared, and they are expressing their anger against the government.

Bhat also pointed out that people are comparing the current situation to the effective arrangements made by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha in the past, where clearance machines would clear roads three times a day. However, such efforts were noticeably absent this time around.

Furthermore, Bhat noted that people are acknowledging the service rendered by the BJP and the Modi government to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, and are now regretting their previous choices. Many are even calling out the National Conference for its failure to address their needs during this crisis.

29/12/2024

Kashmir braces up for more snowfall with back-to-back WDs affecting from Jan 1

MeT Also Warns Of ‘Cold Wave’ At Isolated Places On Jan 30, 31

Srinagar, Dec 29 (GNS): Kashmir Valley is set to receive more snowfall on New Year as weatherman on Sunday said that two Western Disturbances (WD) in quick succession are likely to affect J&K and adjoining areas from January 1 onwards.

A meteorological department official here told GNS while generally dry weather is expected till the end of this year, a feeble western disturbance on January 1-2 is expected to hit J&K. “Generally cloudy (weather is expected) with light snow at scattered places during January 1st evening/night to 2nd morning”.

From January 3-6, he said, a moderate WD was likely to J&K and weather is expected to be generally cloudy with possibility of light to moderate snow at many places of Kashmir Division and scattered places of Jammu Division.

The weather office has also issued an advisory for cold wave at “isolated places” during December 30 and 31.

In view of snowfall and freezing temperature, the MeT official said icy conditions over roads were expected, both in plains and higher reaches. “Tourists/travellers/Transporters are advised to follow Admin/Traffic advisory,” he said.

During January 3-6, he said, chances of moderate to heavy spell of snow at isolated and higher reaches cannot be ruled out.

Meanwhile, the official told Global News Service that Srinagar recorded a low of minus 0.2°C against last night’s minus 1.0°C. Today’s minimum temperature was 2.4°C above normal, he said.

Qazigund, he said, recorded a low of minus 0.4°C against minus 0.6°C. Today’s minimum temperature was 2.3°C above normal for the gateway town of the Valley, he said.

Pahalgam, he said, recorded a low of minus 8.0°C against minus 2.8°C on the previous night and it was 5.2°C below normal for the famous tourist resort in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district.

Kokernag recorded a low of minus 1.8°C against minus 1.5°C on the previous night and it was 0.9°C above normal for the place.

Gulmarg, he said, recorded a low of minus 8.5°C against minus 5.0°C on the previous night. It was 2.6°C below normal for the world famous skiing resort in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district, the official said.

In Kupwara town, the mercury settled at minus 1.0°C against minus 1.2°C on the previous night in the north Kashmir area, he said. The temperature was 2.0°C above normal, he said.

Jammu recorded a low of 6.1°C against 10.3°C on the previous night and it was 1.0°C below normal for J&K’s winter capital, he said.

Banihal recorded a low of 0.8°C (below normal by 1.1°C), Batote minus 2.0°C (below normal by 4.6°C), Katra 5.0°C (1.3°C below normal) and Bhadarwah minus 5.0°C (4.8°C below normal).

Kashmir is under the grip of Chillai-Kalan, the 40-day long harsh winter period that started on December 21. It does not mean an end to the winter either. It is followed by a 20-day-long period called ‘Chillai-Khurd’ that occurs between January 30 and February 19 and a 10-day-long period ‘Chillai-Bachha’ (baby cold) which is from February 20 to March 1. (GNS)

29/12/2024

J&K Govt Notifies Holiday Calendar For 2025

29/12/2024

After the snowfall: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Monitors Restoration Process, Chairs another Review Meeting With MLAs, DCs To Assess Progress In Restoration Of Essential Services

MLAs across party lines appreciate CM-led administration’s swift response

Srinagar, December 29 (GNS):In the aftermath of the recent heavy snowfall, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday chaired a comprehensive meeting with Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) and Deputy Commissioners (DCs) of the Kashmir Division via video conferencing.

The meeting was held at the Raabita Public Outreach Office to assess the ongoing restoration efforts and review the status of essential services, including snow clearance, power and water supply, health facilities and other critical services.

During the meeting, MLAs across the party lines appreciated the efforts of CM-led Administration in swift response to snowfall, acknowledging the commitment of Government in times of weather adversaries.
Minister Javaid Ahmad Dar attended the meeting as legislator.

Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, along with other senior officers, were present during the meeting.

At the outset, the Chief Minister sought feedback from MLAs across party lines regarding the restoration measures in their respective constituencies.

Discussions centered on snow clearance operations, the restoration of power and water supply and the provision of other essential services and supplies.

The Chief Minister also held one-on-one discussions with Deputy Commissioners of the Kashmir Valley and snow-affected districts of Jammu Division.

The DCs provided updates on the current situation and detailed the measures taken to restore normalcy, particularly in challenging weather conditions.
During the meeting, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah urged officers to remain sensitive and responsive to public grievances, directing them to identify gaps in service delivery and take immediate corrective actions.

He emphasized the need to minimize hardships faced by the common people and praised the dedication of the Divisional Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners and employees who have been working tirelessly in adverse climatic conditions.

Looking ahead, the Chief Minister called for enhanced preparedness in light of the snowfall forecast for the following week.

He instructed officials to improve action plans based on lessons learnt from recent weather events.

The Chief Minister emphasized the need to prioritize snow clearance on link roads, inner lanes, and bylanes to ensure accessibility for residents.
He directed the Jal Shakti Department (PHE) to address water supply issues promptly and enhance the deployment of water tankers in affected areas.

CM Omar Abdullah instructed Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) and concerned departments to implement measures to prevent waterlogging in low-lying areas.

Stressing the importance of smooth traffic movement on the National Highway, the Chief Minister called for enhanced coordination between the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), Traffic Police, and District Administrations.
Chief Minister stressed the importance of continuous monitoring and synergy among various departments to avoid any inconvenience to the public.

Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, Divisional Commissioner Jammu and other senior civil administration officials also participated in the meeting virtually.(GNS)

28/12/2024

Snowfall cripples life in Kashmir

Srinagar-Jammu National Highway remains closed, all flights cancelled; People get respite from cold wave, MeT predicts more snowfall from Jan 3 to 6

Owais Gul

Srinagar, Dec 28 (KNO): Following the first major snowfall of the season life came to a standstill across Kashmir on Saturday.

Major highways and roads remained closed for a second straight day, while flights could neither take-off nor land at the Srinagar Airport.

However, the snowfall brought relief from the cold-wave conditions as all the stations recorded above normal minimum temperatures for the first time in recent weeks.

According to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, recorded 8 inches of snowfall in the past 24 hours.

As per the data, the areas falling in Anantnag, Shopian and Pulwama districts in South Kashmir recorded a snowfall between one foot to 3 feet.

Areas in Ganderbal district recorded snowfall between 6 to 14 inches.

Gulmarg, a famous ski-resort, recorded a snowfall of 1 foot and 3 inches while Pahalgam, a famous tourist destination recorded 18 inches snowfall, the data reads.

Bandipora, Kupwara and Baramulla districts in North Kashmir recorded snowfall between 2 to 9 inches.

In Jammu division’s Kishtwar, a snowfall of 4-5 inches was recorded, Budhal Rajouri recorded 10 inches.

Main Doda received 2-3 inches, Bhaderwah 4 inches, Banihal 5-8 inches and Batote 2 inches.

WEATHER FORECAST

Moreover, the weatherman predicted that the weather would remain generally dry till December 31.

Director Meteorological department (MeT), Dr Mukhtar Ahmad told KNO that weather would remain generally cloudy between January 1 and 2 and there is a possibility of light snow at isolated places.

He added that there is a possibility of light to moderate snowfall at many places of Jammu and Kashmir from January 3 to 6.

The MeT in its advisory stated that a cold-wave is expected at isolated places on 30th and 31st December. “In view of snowfall, sub-freezing temp & icy conditions over roads (plains/higher reaches), the tourists, travellers and transporters are advised to follow administration and traffic advisories.

FLIGHT OPERATIONS SUSPENDED

Meanwhile, all the flights at Srinagar Airport were cancelled due to adverse weather conditions on Saturday.

Director Srinagar Airport, Javed Anjum, confirmed to KNO that due to inclement weather conditions and poor visibility, all 35 flights from Srinagar airport were cancelled.

He advised passengers to stay in touch with their respective airlines for updates on rescheduling or refunds.

On Friday, only six flights were cancelled due to the adverse weather conditions.

ROADS AND HIGHWAYS CLOSED

All the major roads and highways continued to remain closed for vehicular movement for the 2nd straight day while the stranded vehicles were allowed to ply towards Ramban on Srinagar-Jammu National Highway.

“All the stranded passengers have been allowed to ply towards Ramban today,” a top official said, adding that no fresh traffic was allowed from either side along the National Highway.

He added that the traffic has also been stopped at Banihal and Ramban due to the fresh snowfall.

The roads including Mughal Road, SSG road, Bandipora-Gurez and others also remained closed for the vehicular movement as precautionary measure—(KNO)

28/12/2024

The enchanting beauty of Srinagar covered in snowfall.

Pix: Basitzargar

28/12/2024

Earthquake jolts in Kashmir.

Update your areas

28/12/2024

*Power Supply Restored in almost all areas of Srinagar, Snow cleared from all Priority Roads: DC Srinagar*

28/12/2024

In Loving Memory of Abdul Ahad Beigh
With profound grief & sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved father, Abdul Ahad Beigh, son of Mohd Ameer Beigh, resident of Hamdania Colony, Nalabal, Srinagar. Our Abba left this world on the morning of December 28, 2024, leaving us in deep grief and shock.

The congregational Fatiha Khawani will be held on Tuesday, December 31, 2024, at the ancestral graveyard in Nalabal, Srinagar.

We pray to Almighty Allah to grant our Abba the highest place in Jannah.

From:
Imtiyaz Ahmed Beigh (Son)
Ajaz Ahmed Beigh (Son)
Bilal Ahmed Beigh (Son)

زندگی ایک خواب تھی، خواب کیا، خواب کا فسانہ تھا
آنکھ کھلی تو کچھ نہ تھا، جو تھا وہ نظارہ تھا

28/12/2024

Heartwarming Hospitality: Mirwaiz praises Kashmiris for helping stranded tourists during snowfall

KNO Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 28 (KNO): Heavy snowfall has thrown normal life into disarray across the Kashmir Valley, disrupting air and road traffic.

Amid these challenges, Kashmir’s chief religious cleric, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, has lauded the efforts of local Masjid committees and residents for accommodating stranded tourists and offering them support during these testing times.

On X (formerly Twitter), Mirwaiz appreciated the exemplary display of hospitality by Kashmiris. “Heartening to see Kashmiris opening their Masjids and homes to stranded tourists amidst heavy snowfall. This gesture of warmth and humanity reflects our longstanding tradition of hospitality and help in times of need,” Mirwaiz wrote as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO).

The snowfall, which began under the influence of a fresh Western Disturbance (WD), led to the cancellation of flights and the closure of major roads, including the Srinagar-Jammu highway.

Many vehicles remain stranded along the highway, with efforts underway to clear snow and restore connectivity as soon as possible.

The southern districts of Kashmir experienced moderate snowfall from Friday into the early hours of Saturday, while several parts of South and Central Kashmir, including Srinagar, witnessed the season’s first snowfall—(KNO)

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