Frozen Dal Lake: Shikara operators face tough battle against severe cold

Srinagar, Dec 23: A severe cold wave has gripped the Kashmir Valley, leaving Shikara operators in Srinagar’s famous Dal Lake battling to navigate the frozen waters. The intense cold has caused parts of the lake to freeze, forcing boat operators to break through the ice to continue their work.On Monday morning, many Shikara operators were seen using their paddles to clear a path through the ice. “If this cold wave continues, our paddles won’t be able to break the ice,” lamented several operators, determined to continue serving tourists despite the harsh conditions.Nazir Ahmed, a Shikara owner, spoke about the daily struggle caused by the extreme weather. “The intense cold in the Kashmir Valley has made every day a challenge, especially since the 40-day harsh winter period of Chillai Kalan began,” he told Rising Kashmir.According to the Meteorological Department, temperatures in Srinagar have ranged from a low of minus 7°C to a high of 7°C during this cold wave. The department has forecasted even harsher conditions across Jammu and Kashmir starting December 24, further worsening the plight of the valley’s residents.Despite the freezing temperatures, the people of Kashmir are eagerly awaiting snowfall. The cold wave has affected not just Srinagar, but the entire valley, with several areas recording temperatures well below freezing. The valley is currently in the midst of Chillai Kalan, the harshest phase of winter, which lasts until January 31. This will be followed by Chillai Khurd, a relatively milder phase of winter.