Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], December 28 (HBTV): Around 2,000 vehicles were stuck in Qazigund town in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district following the valley's first snowfall of the season on Friday, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said.

CM Abdullah mentioned that he had spoken with the Deputy Commissioner of Anantnag about the situation, adding that heavy vehicles are being allowed to move, and efforts are underway to clear the remaining stranded vehicles.

In a post on X on Friday night, CM Abdullah stated, 'I just spoke to DC Anantnag about the current situation of the road between Qazigund and the tunnel. The icy conditions have caused traffic to back up. The stranded vehicles, in both directions, are slowly moving and, where necessary, being assisted.'

He added that the DC was on-site with his team. 'I've instructed him to ensure that vehicles with families and children must be given priority.'

'If necessary arrangements for overnight shelter will be made. The DC is accompanied by an ambulance in case of any medical emergency,' Omar Abdullah added.

Sharing updates on the aftermath of the snowfall, Omar Abdullah said, 'It snowed continuously from Banihal to Srinagar. The conditions were quite treacherous. I understand there are around 2,000 vehicles stuck between the tunnel and Qazigund. My office has been in touch with the administration in South Kashmir. While snow clearance has been done, the road remains icy.'

The picturesque city of Srinagar, known for its serene landscapes and scenic beauty, welcomed the winter season with its first snowfall of the year on Friday.

The Baramulla district in the union territory also received a fresh spell of snowfall on Friday.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast isolated light rain and snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir until December 30. (ANI)