Chillai-Kalan is the 40 days period of harsh winters for Kashmir Valley. Chillai- Kalan begins on December 21 and ends on Jan 29, next year. This period is followed by a 20-day-long Chillai-Khurd (small cold) that occurs between Jan 30 and Feb 19. The snow that falls during Chillai-Kalan freezes and lasts longer. It is this snow that adds to the glaciers of the Valley and replenishes the perennial reservoirs that feed the downstream rivers and streams. Also, this becomes the source and reserve for the other water bodies which can last till summer months.
Somehow, Chillai-Kalan was a discouraging period this season. Practically, there was no snowfall over the peaks and the catchment areas. The first snow for Srinagar Valley was witnessed on 31st Jan 2024, on cessation of Chillai-Kalan. Irreparable damage was done to the fruit and crop industry and also the ecological balance, as well. Sports, adventure and tourism were struck badly, as never before.
The commencement of Chillai-Khurd has given some hope. Two back-to-back spells of heavy rain and snow have helped recharge the water resources and reservoirs. Adventure and tourism are back on track. Appreciable recovery, of the large deficit incurred earlier, has been made. The state of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh had a seasonal deficit of 98% as of 29th Jan 2024. Courtesy, of these two spells, the margin of the deficit is reduced to 56% as of 05th Feb 2024. Yes, it is still large and the gap needs further fillers.
The western disturbance has cleared the mountains. A feeble trough as an upper air system may mildly affect the extreme higher reaches. No significant contribution is likely. A little sad aspect adds to the misery that no active weather system is likely to arrive at least for the next one week or even longer. The current stacks of snow need to be supplemented at the earliest. The next phase of Khelo India, slated from 21st to 25th Feb will need a fresh pile up of snow in Gulmarg for carrying out Skiing, Ice Skating and other snow sports. If prolonged, the fresh decent spell of snow may roll over to the last event ‘Chillai- Bache’ (baby cold ) which is from Feb 20 to Mar 02. Fingers crossed for an early bout of snow to compliment the existing ‘white cover’.
Image Credit: kashmirobserver
