Srinagar: Heavy snowfall across Kashmir brought life to a standstill, disrupting road and air traffic, and leaving hundreds of tourists stranded.
From Srinagar to the farthest corners of the valley, locals extended warmth and hospitality by opening their homes, mosques, and community spaces to provide shelter and food to those in need.
Particularly affected were areas like Gund, Gagangir, Sonamarg, Kulan, Rayil, and Guna-Van in the Ganderbal district, where many tourists were stranded due to roadblocks and vehicle slippage.
With hotels quickly filling up, residents stepped in, offering their homes and traditional hamaams—heated rooms—to ensure visitors stayed warm. In Gagangir, some hotel owners even provided free accommodations.
Tourists expressed gratitude for generosity shown by the people of Kashmir.
“We were completely stranded, unsure of where to go, when a local family welcomed us into their home. They treated us like their own, offering warmth and food. It’s a kindness we will never forget,” said Priya Sharma, a tourist from Delhi.
Rahul Deshmukh, a traveller from Maharashtra, said, “The people of Kashmir didn’t just help us; they showed us the true meaning of humanity. Their generosity during such harsh weather is something we’ll always cherish.”
Social media was abuzz with praise for Kashmiris, with Mirwaiz Umar Farooq highlighting their humanitarian efforts.
“Heartening to see Kashmiris opening their masjids and homes to stranded tourists amidst heavy snowfall,” Mirwaiz wrote on X.
Police across the valley also assisted stranded commuters, while efforts to clear roads and restore connectivity are ongoing.
The acts of the Kashmiri people during this crisis have been lauded by many and the social media is flooded by praises.
