Srinagar: Several flights at the Srinagar airport were either cancelled, diverted or delayed due to speedy winds, officials said.
They said nine flights were cancelled, while two were diverted due to strong winds caused by a steep pressure gradient.
Several other flights were delayed, they added.
Strong gusty winds blew in most parts of the Valley over the last 24 hours. At some places, the winds caused damage to buildings and vehicles, officials said.
In Srinagar city, a vehicle was completely destroyed near the Tourist Reception Centre (TRC) after a tree fell on it due to strong winds. Several power lines were damaged, leading to power outages in multiple areas on Thursday and Friday night.
Chief Engineer, Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL), Aaquib S W Deva, while talking to KNO, said, “Sudden windstorm has caused damage to power lines due to fallen trees and debris, affecting supply in several areas.”
“KPDCL is working hard to restore power. We appreciate the patience of people and their understanding,” he added.
Moreover, in Habbak, Srinagar, a rooftop collapsed onto high-tension (HT) power lines, further disrupting the electricity supply.
Loss of properties were reported from north, south and central Kashmir areas with several structures damages and trees uprooted.
Reports of damage to window panes of homes were also received from many areas.
Director Meteorological department (MeT), Dr Mukhtar Ahmad said that the weather would remain generally dry till April 6.
PDD restores over 90% electricity: Officials
Following the gusty winds in many places of Kashmir, the Power Development Department (PDD) has restored over 90 percent electricity in the affected areas.
An official informed KNO that the electricity lines were badly damaged because of the gusty winds.
The official said that the huge damage was caused in many areas of southern and central Kashmir.
“We were all out on the ground to restore the electricity in the affected areas,” the official said.
The official further said, “We have almost restored 90 percent of electricity and work is going to restore the power in remaining areas.”
